Prime Minister Kim: "13,000 Confirmed Cases... COVID Testing and Treatment at Local Clinics from the 29th" (Update)

Rapid Antigen Testing Available at 256 Selected Screening Clinics Nationwide

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyewon] Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum said on the 26th regarding the spread of Omicron, "Starting from the 29th, we will expand the transition to a testing and treatment system centered on local clinics and hospitals nationwide."

On the same day, Prime Minister Kim chaired the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters meeting and the safety situation inspection meeting at the Government Seoul Office, stating, "Since Omicron became the dominant strain last weekend, the daily number of confirmed cases has exceeded 13,000 in just a few days. From now on, the top priority of quarantine measures will be to reduce severe cases and deaths."

Prime Minister Kim explained, "Starting today, the transition to a testing and treatment system centered on local clinics and hospitals begins, with 43 medical institutions participating in four regions where the Omicron spread is clear: Gwangju, Jeonnam, Pyeongtaek, and Anseong."

From the 29th, this system transition will be expanded nationwide. The government plans to enable rapid antigen testing at 256 screening clinics across the country as a first step. Prime Minister Kim said, "We will prepare thoroughly during the Lunar New Year holiday period and expand the implementation to 431 respiratory clinics nationwide and designated local clinics and hospitals starting from the 3rd of next month."

The government expects that if COVID-19 diagnosis, testing, and treatment are conducted together at nearby clinics and hospitals, the response to Omicron will be faster and more efficient. It is also expected that public health centers will be able to reduce the burden of screening and managing confirmed cases.

In addition to the government's quarantine restructuring, Prime Minister Kim urged the public to participate in quarantine efforts by refraining from visiting their hometowns during the Lunar New Year holiday. He said, "If either you or your parents have not completed the third vaccination, I earnestly request that you postpone meetings."

Regarding the Serious Accidents Punishment Act, which is set to be enforced the day after tomorrow, he said, "There are concerns that the enforcement of the law has increased the burden on companies, but the era of viewing workers' safety as a cost is over. A major transformation to a society where human life is the highest priority is now inevitable. The Serious Accidents Punishment Act will be the first button to start this change." He also urged the Ministry of Employment and Labor, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, and other relevant ministries to review any shortcomings to ensure smooth implementation at the field level after the law takes effect.