The Korean Medical Association's COVID-19 Response Expert Committee expressed support on the 11th for the government's declaration of infectious disease normalization and easing of quarantine measures, while urging individuals to pay close attention to personal health management.
On the 11th, when the COVID-19 crisis alert level was lowered from "Severe" to "Alert" and the mandatory 7-day quarantine for confirmed cases was changed to a recommendation, effectively declaring the end of COVID-19, a notice about lifting the mask mandate was posted at the ticket gate of Gwanghwamun Station in Seoul. Photo by Dongju Yoon doso7@
In a press release issued that afternoon, the committee stated, "We extend our gratitude to the public for overcoming the fear and anxiety surrounding new infectious diseases and faithfully adhering to quarantine guidelines such as hand washing, mask wearing, and vaccination." It added, "COVID-19 infections are still occurring at around 20,000 cases per day, and due to mask wearing and limited outdoor activities over the past three years, basic defenses against viruses and bacterial infections have weakened. We therefore recommend that individuals consistently pay attention to their personal health management."
The committee first advised that the principle of 'rest when sick' must be upheld. Since the COVID-19 virus still remains in the community causing infections, if symptoms such as sore throat and fever appear, individuals should consider the possibility of COVID-19 infection, take care not to transmit it to others, and get appropriate rest to overcome the infectious disease.
Attention to common colds and bacterial infections was also emphasized. To this end, thorough hand hygiene is essential, and infection prevention through brushing teeth and hand washing after going outside was requested. Mask wearing is also recommended for high-risk groups or when visiting medical institutions. Furthermore, even if it is a cold, if symptoms do not improve within 2 to 3 days, individuals should visit a nearby clinic for medical consultation.
The committee stated, "The declaration of COVID-19 endemic does not mean that the COVID-19 infectious disease has completely disappeared. Infections are still occurring in the community." It added, "Respiratory viruses and bacterial infectious diseases, as well as respiratory conditions caused by fine dust and pollen, are prevalent. We hope that through the above personal health recommendations, the precious health and lives of the public will be protected."
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