Professor Lee Jae-gap of Hallym University Department of Infectious Diseases is presenting at a public forum on phased daily recovery held on the afternoon of October 1 at El Tower Orche Hall in Yangjae-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] As the government decided to expand the application of the quarantine pass, dissatisfaction among unvaccinated individuals is rising. However, Professor Lee Jae-gap of Hallym University’s Department of Infectious Diseases drew a clear line in the controversy by stating, "The quarantine pass is a protection strategy for the unvaccinated."
On the 4th, Professor Lee said on Facebook, "The quarantine pass requires responsible behavior from unvaccinated people by asking them to at least submit a negative (PCR test) certificate since they have not been vaccinated."
He also refuted the view that the quarantine pass is essentially a vaccine mandate policy. He said, "If it were a vaccine mandate, unvaccinated individuals would have to bear the cost of tests or treatment themselves, pay fines, work only from home, or, like in Germany, be prohibited from going out except for essential purposes. It would have to be at that level."
He emphasized, "Our country has not yet prepared or implemented such policies."
Earlier, in another post, Professor Lee urged vaccination again, saying, "There are many articles complaining about the expansion of the quarantine pass, but now is not the time to accept such complaints."
He appealed for the third dose, adolescent vaccination, and vaccination of the unvaccinated, stating, "We will treat patients who occur no matter what. While medical staff are holding on, please focus all your efforts on vaccination."
Meanwhile, the government has decided to expand the application of the quarantine pass starting from the 6th. Accordingly, when entering multi-use facilities such as restaurants and cafes, proof that 14 days have passed since completing vaccination or a negative PCR test certificate is required.
Also, from February next year, adolescents aged 12 to 18 will be included in the quarantine pass target group.
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