<중대본> "Holiday Season Could Spark Re-epidemic... Please Follow Voluntary Guidelines"

Two Suspected Monkeypox Cases Reported... Explanation to Follow Upon Results
During Vacation Season, 'Beach Congestion Traffic Light System' to Prevent Crowding

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] The government has mentioned the possibility of a COVID-19 resurgence during the summer vacation season and urged the public to voluntarily comply with quarantine guidelines.

Lee Ki-il, the 1st Chief Coordinator of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (Vice Minister of Health and Welfare), held a Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures meeting at the Government Complex Sejong on the morning of the 22nd, stating, "Last summer, the daily confirmed cases exceeded 1,000 due to increased travel during the vacation season, marking the start of the 4th wave," and added, "This year's summer vacation measures will focus on the autonomy of the people rather than regulations and obligations."

Lee also said, "The immunity effect formed by the Omicron wave this spring is expected to decrease after 4 to 6 months, and many experts predict a resurgence after July or August this year," adding, "The government is steadily reforming the medical response system before the resurgence becomes a reality to safely protect the public from the resurgence."

He then provided guidelines for preventing a resurgence during the vacation season. Lee requested, "Please get vaccinated before traveling," and recommended, "Those unvaccinated should complete the third dose, and seniors aged 60 and over are advised to receive the fourth dose." He also added, "Please always wear masks indoors during travel, and for outdoor performances or events with more than 50 people, please wear masks for safety."

The government has also introduced quarantine measures for places like beaches and valleys to prevent infection spread during the vacation season. To prevent crowding at some beaches, real-time congestion information will be provided through a 'Beach Congestion Traffic Light System.' Quarantine managers will be assigned to rivers, valleys, and national parks to guide daily quarantine rules and manage visitor dispersion.

Additionally, Lee urged compliance with ventilation guidelines when using cooling devices during the summer. He emphasized, "At home, please ventilate three times a day for at least 10 minutes each time when operating air conditioners," and "At facilities, open all doors and windows before and after business hours, use ventilation functions, ventilate for more than 30 minutes, and ventilate frequently during business hours."

Meanwhile, Lee reported, "Yesterday (the 21st) afternoon, two suspected monkeypox cases were reported, and both are currently undergoing diagnostic tests at the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency," adding, "We will provide detailed explanations to the public as soon as the test results are available today."