Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun: "Utilizing All Resources to Prevent the Spread of Group Infection at Itaewon Clubs" (Update)

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Mewon] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun emphasized on the 9th that all available resources will be utilized to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) cluster that occurred at clubs in Itaewon, Seoul.

At the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting held at the Government Seoul Office that morning, Prime Minister Chung said, "We are now on the testing ground," and added, "Whether we can stop this local infection from spreading any further will determine the success or failure of future quarantine efforts."

He explained, "Through epidemiological investigations, we must quickly identify contacts and conduct extensive diagnostic testing to find confirmed cases and promptly isolate them from the community," and "The Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH) and local governments are closely cooperating to carry out these tasks."

He continued, "However, due to the nature of entertainment facilities, it seems that among the approximately 1,500 visitors to Itaewon clubs, many find it difficult to disclose contacts or do not wish to reveal their identities," and instructed, "The CDCH and local governments should use all means to find these individuals and conduct diagnostic tests within the shortest possible time."

Prime Minister Chung earnestly requested, "Those who were at Itaewon clubs and nearby areas from April 30 to May 5 during the holiday period should visit the nearest screening clinic for diagnostic testing even if they have no symptoms, for their own and the community's safety," and added, "Your voluntary cooperation is crucial. Please keep in mind that hesitation increases the risk of transmission to family, neighbors, and the community."

Regarding the administrative order issued by the government the previous day recommending the suspension of operations at clubs and other entertainment facilities nationwide for one month, he explained, "It was an unavoidable measure taken ahead of the weekend because there is a possibility that silent spreaders who are unaware of their infection might visit clubs again."

He also stated, "Facilities operating in violation of quarantine guidelines will face penalties and orders to suspend operations."

Meanwhile, a COVID-19 cluster infection is occurring centered around Itaewon clubs and pubs visited by patient A (29) from Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, the 66th confirmed case, on the 2nd. At least 19 confirmed cases have been reported as of the previous day.

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