"No Special Measures... Maintain Hygiene and Wear Masks"
Recently, there has been a sharp increase in the number of influenza (flu) patients. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has warned that this year could see the largest flu outbreak in a decade.
According to the KDCA on November 7, the number of suspected flu cases per 1,000 outpatients at clinic-level medical institutions during the 44th week (October 26 to November 1) was 22.8, a 67.6% increase from the previous week’s figure of 13.6.
A pediatric specialty hospital in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, where influenza and COVID-19 simultaneously spread last January. Photo by Kang Jinhyung
Considering that during the same period last year there were 3.9 cases per 1,000 people, this represents more than a fivefold increase. The incidence rate was particularly high among children aged 7 to 12 (68.4 cases per 1,000) and those aged 1 to 6 (40.6 cases per 1,000).
As a result, the number of inpatients at hospital-level medical institutions reached 175, a sharp rise compared to week 43’s 98 patients. Even when comparing the past four weeks, the number of inpatients has continued to increase, from 47 to 55, then 98, and now 175.
The KDCA had already projected at a press briefing on November 3 that this year’s flu outbreak could reach the highest level in ten years. Hong Jeongik, Director of the Infectious Disease Policy Bureau at the KDCA, stated, “Given the outbreak situation in neighboring countries and the colder weather, it is possible that this season will resemble the previous season that saw the highest peak in the past decade.”
The KDCA recommends vaccination and adherence to preventive measures to guard against the flu. As of October 31, approximately 6.58 million people aged 65 and older (60.5% of the target group) and about 1.89 million children (40.5%) had received vaccinations in Korea.
Director Hong explained, “(Even though a flu outbreak is expected) there are no special measures in place,” adding, “Individuals should maintain personal hygiene, wear masks, and avoid visiting places where close contact occurs.”
He further noted, “While many school-aged patients are being reported and the younger generation is leading the spread of the flu, ultimately, the population at greatest risk from infection is the elderly.” He added, “It is important for this age group to adopt a culture of refraining from attending school or work when they are ill.”
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