Prime Minister Jeong: "Although the spread is calming down, we cannot let our guard down"

"Over 2,800 Visitors to Yeolbang Center Urged to Get Tested at Screening Clinics"

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on the 9th, "The spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) appears to be easing gradually after reaching its peak, but considering the transmissibility and speed of the virus, the third wave this winter could return to a spreading phase at any time."

At the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting held at the Government Seoul Office on the same day, Prime Minister Chung stated, "We cannot let our guard down even on weekends."

He expressed concern, saying, "Since the first confirmed case among visitors to the Yeolbang Center in Sangju, Gyeongbuk, in December last year, a total of 505 people have been infected so far. Among them, 351 are secondary infections, indicating a serious situation. Although about 2,800 people visited the center, approximately 70% have not yet been tested. There are many cases where contact cannot be made or tests are being avoided, which raises greater concern."

He urged, "Those who have not yet been tested should immediately visit a screening clinic and get tested. Please keep in mind that your non-cooperation could lead to many people around you becoming infected with COVID-19."

Prime Minister Chung particularly mentioned, "Researchers who have experienced COVID-19 directly surveyed about 3,700 confirmed cases from over 50 countries and found that one in five people have not been able to return to work due to aftereffects. Additionally, 65% of respondents are still suffering from various aftereffects even six months later."

He continued, "I have repeatedly emphasized the risks of COVID-19 infection through similar survey results. I ask the public not to consider COVID-19 a mild illness and to always maintain vigilance in daily life."

Prime Minister Chung expressed concern, saying, "Due to the severe cold wave continuing for several days, the Han River water has frozen, and record low temperatures are being broken in various parts of the southern regions. The cold attacks the vulnerable groups who are already struggling the most."

He instructed, "Local governments should proactively prevent safety accidents caused by the cold wave, such as frozen water pipes, power outages, and icy roads. Also, please make special efforts to ensure that care and welfare support for marginalized groups such as children at risk of food insecurity, elderly living alone, and homeless people are not neglected."

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