Infection Sources and Transmission Routes Unclear 'Numerous'... Jeonnam on Alert (Update)

Citizens undergoing COVID-19 diagnostic testing. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Seul-gi] The novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) that occurred mainly in the eastern region of Jeonnam is causing both 'n-th' generation infections in the local community and small-scale cluster infections simultaneously, putting the quarantine authorities on high alert.

According to Jeonnam Province on the 16th, the total cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the province is 254. Among them, the number of community infections is 206.

The quarantine authorities stated that many cases have unclear sources of infection and transmission routes, and some confirmed patients continue their daily lives despite having suspicious symptoms, which is causing further spread.

The authorities are making all-out efforts to block infections, including raising social distancing in Suncheon, Gwangyang, and Yeosu to level 1.5, but it is understood that the spread has not been contained.

Meanwhile, as of 10 a.m. on this day, the number of confirmed local infections spreading mainly in Gwangyang, Suncheon, and Yeosu since the 7th of this month is 61 in total.

By region, Suncheon and Gwangyang have 28 and 22 cases respectively, while Yeosu has 5, Hwasun 4, Naju 1, and Gurye 1, with confirmed cases concentrated in the eastern region.

The authorities are concerned that the spread of infections in the eastern region is occurring with a mixture of n-th generation infections and small-scale cluster infections.

In the case of n-th generation infections, the infection progresses with a time difference, so it can be controlled through diagnostic tests and epidemiological investigations. However, small-scale cluster infections that occur simultaneously without revealing the initial source of infection are very difficult to respond to.

Jeonnam Governor Kim Young-rok appealed in an e-briefing on this day, "If you have abnormal symptoms, please visit the public health center screening clinic immediately. If you receive a notification message, please voluntarily undergo diagnostic testing."

He added, "With increased indoor activities and insufficient ventilation during winter, and overlapping flu season until January next year, quarantine is most important," and urged, "Please refrain from private gatherings and dinners such as year-end parties until vaccines and treatments are available."

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