Authorities: "If high-risk group vaccination is completed by this Chuseok, mask guidelines may change... but prediction is difficult" (Update)

Masks Must Be Worn on Public Transportation... Variant Virus Poses a Variable

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Seo So-jung] The quarantine authorities have stated that if COVID-19 vaccinations for high-risk groups are completed by this Chuseok, they may consider changing the guidelines related to mask-wearing.

On the 14th, Kwon Jun-wook, the 2nd Deputy Head of the Central Disease Control Headquarters, said at the regular briefing of the Central Disease Control Headquarters, "The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has changed its guidelines regarding mask-wearing," adding, "The guideline states that those who have completed vaccination do not need to wear masks indoors or outdoors."

Deputy Head Kwon explained, "Based on research conducted in Israel and additional studies in the U.S., the defense against COVID-19 among those who have completed vaccination has been confirmed," and added, "even if some 'breakthrough infections' (confirmed cases after vaccination) occur, it has been confirmed that the viral load, severity, and transmissibility are weaker, which has led to improvements in mask guidelines."

However, he mentioned that the situation in the U.S. differs from that in Korea and that there may be various variables. It is still difficult to predict the exact timing for removing masks.

Deputy Head Kwon said, "Currently, the U.K. variant, which has low evasion against vaccines and treatments, is dominant among variants in the U.S.," expressing concern that "there are still variables regarding the South African and Brazilian variants."

He also stated, "We need to observe the situations in countries ahead in vaccination, including the U.S., a bit longer," and emphasized, "The focus is not on removing masks, and even if vaccination is completed, wearing masks on public transportation and other places must still be maintained."

Deputy Head Kwon added, "For safe and efficient vaccination to continue, if by this Chuseok, vaccinations for high-risk groups such as those aged 65 and older are completed, changes to mask-related guidelines may be possible," and further said, "even before that, if safety regarding mask-wearing outdoors is verified based on social distancing situations and the proportion of vaccinated individuals, related reviews can be conducted."

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