COVID-19 Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters Meeting
Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum is conversing with participants at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters meeting for COVID-19 response held at the Government Seoul Office Building on the afternoon of the 26th. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Son Seon-hee] Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum said on the 26th, "We will expand the vaccination targets to include adolescents and pregnant women, and soon start additional vaccinations, so-called 'booster shots,' beginning with high-risk groups such as the elderly aged 60 and over and healthcare workers." He also stated that for the general public, "Starting early next month, we will shorten the interval between the first and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to increase the vaccination completion rate."
On the same day, Prime Minister Kim chaired the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters meeting at the Government Seoul Office and said, "The vaccine supply is sufficient." The detailed fourth-quarter vaccination plan is scheduled to be announced by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 27th.
Prime Minister Kim said, "With the expansion of vaccination targets to those aged 12 to 17, parents' concerns will be significant," and urged, "The Disease Control Agency should cooperate with educational authorities to provide sufficient explanations regarding student vaccinations, offer ample information on response systems for any possible side effects or adverse reactions, and thoroughly review related matters to ensure the public does not worry."
The daily number of new COVID-19 cases recorded 2,771 on the day. This is the second-highest figure following the previous day's record high of 3,272 cases.
Prime Minister Kim expressed concern, saying, "Although somewhat anticipated, the scale and speed of the increase indicate a very serious situation," and added, "The effects of the Chuseok holiday are expected to continue until this week, when the incubation period ends." He urged, "Please refrain from meetings and gatherings during this week," and requested, "Those who visited their hometowns or traveled should visit the nearest testing site before returning to work or daily life."
He continued, "The government will focus all its capabilities on rapid diagnostic testing and blocking the spread this week to minimize the impact of the Chuseok holiday and take a step closer to restoring daily life."
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