[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Son Seon-hee] President Moon Jae-in on the 6th instructed, "Please actively consider additional support measures beyond the current living support funds to alleviate the difficulties of COVID-19 home treatment patients and their cohabitants."
According to the Office for Government Policy Coordination, President Moon gave this directive during a weekly meeting with Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum at the Blue House on the same day. He also requested, "Please consider comprehensive epidemiological investigation support measures, including significantly reinforcing support personnel for thorough epidemiological investigations."
Since the phased return to normal life began last month, confirmed cases have rapidly increased, but since hospital treatment is prioritized for severe and critical patients, the government recommends home treatment for mild cases. In this regard, plans to increase the living support funds provided to home treatment patients are also being considered. Prime Minister Kim said, "To closely manage and support home treatment situations, each vice minister will be designated as a 'Home Treatment Officer,' and dedicated personnel will be reinforced."
The weekly meeting mainly discussed the recent COVID-19 infection situation and countermeasures against the Omicron variant.
Prime Minister Kim reported, "Due to the rapid increase in elderly confirmed cases and severe patients, as well as the domestic influx of the Omicron variant, difficulties in quarantine management are growing. To respond to the variant, we have expanded the list of countries subject to entry restrictions and strengthened the management of entrants. Starting today, we will inevitably strengthen restrictions on private gatherings and expand the application of the quarantine pass." He added, "To curb the spread within this year, the government will mobilize all its capabilities and designate the next four weeks until the end of the year as a 'Special Quarantine Inspection Period' for an all-out response."
In this regard, the Prime Minister's Office plans to operate an 'On-site Inspection Support Team' to conduct direct inspections and management.
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