Increased Risk of UK-Origin Variant Virus... First US Death + Denmark Extends Lockdown

[Image source= AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Byung-hee] The risk posed by the COVID-19 variant virus originating in the United Kingdom is increasing.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the UK-origin variant virus has already spread to 70 countries worldwide, and on the 28th (local time), the American media outlet 'The Hill' reported that the first death from this virus infection occurred in the United States.

The New Jersey Department of Health announced on the 27th that one person infected with the UK-origin variant virus in New Jersey has died. The hospital did not disclose the identity of the deceased but stated that the person had not recently traveled abroad.

The health authorities emphasized, "In the situation with the variant COVID-19, it is more important than ever to continue wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and staying home when feeling ill."

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 300 people in 26 states have been infected with the UK-origin variant virus.

The UK-origin variant virus is estimated to be over 50% more infectious than the existing COVID-19 virus. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson cited research results from domestic researchers on the 22nd, stating that the UK-origin variant virus is observed to be linked to an increase in fatality rates.

The Danish government announced on the same day that the number of infections with the UK-origin COVID-19 variant virus is increasing and extended lockdown measures for three weeks until the 28th of next month.

The Danish government had implemented lockdown measures starting from the 9th of last month. On the 13th, they decided to extend the lockdown for three weeks, and this time they extended it again.

Due to the lockdown measures, gatherings in public places were limited to five people, and restaurants, bars, and schools were closed. Danish authorities advised citizens to refrain from overseas travel and restricted the entry of foreign travelers.

In Denmark, 13.5% of new confirmed cases last week were reported to be infected with the variant virus. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said at a press conference, "Despite the current extensive restrictions, the variant virus is spreading."

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