Asia COVID-19 Cases Surge... Some Countries Report Highest New Infections (Comprehensive)

[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Ju-yeon] The spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) is accelerating across Asia. In some countries, the number of new confirmed cases has surged, setting new daily records. Concerns are rising as the fatality rate is also high in certain countries, increasing anxiety.

In Vietnam, as of 4:30 PM on the 23rd, the cumulative number of COVID-19 confirmed cases rose to 121. The previous day saw a daily record of 19 new confirmed cases. The Vietnamese government has banned the entry of all foreigners and overseas nationals, except in special cases, starting from the 22nd. It also announced that all international passenger flights arriving in Vietnam will be suspended.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc stated, "There is a high risk of community transmission as many people are still gathering in restaurants, clubs, amusement parks, and some churches continue to hold worship services with large congregations."

In the Philippines, as of 4 PM on the same day, the cumulative number of COVID-19 confirmed cases increased to 462. On that day alone, 82 new confirmed cases were reported, breaking the daily record. The cumulative death toll stands at 33. In the Philippines, due to a shortage of protective gear for medical staff, some hospitals are reportedly using garbage bags or plastic bags as substitutes for protective suits.

In Indonesia, 65 new COVID-19 cases were added on the day, bringing the total to 579. The death toll reached 49.

Additionally, in Cambodia, 2 new confirmed cases were added on the day, increasing the cumulative total to 86. The previous day, 31 people?including 29 French tourists and 2 local tour guides?were infected in a cluster outbreak in Sihanoukville, southwestern Cambodia, setting a daily record for the largest increase.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.