In the Midday Scorching Heat... Bangdaebon "Flexible Operation of Screening Clinics from 2 to 4 PM"

On the 18th, citizens lined up in a long queue to get tested at the temporary screening clinic at Seoul Station. Photo by Kim Hyun-min

[Asia Economy Reporter Song Seung-seop] On the 18th, the Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH) communicated measures to local governments to flexibly adjust the operating hours of temporary screening clinics to prevent heat damage during midday heatwaves.

According to the "Temporary Screening Clinic Summer Operation Guidelines" distributed by the CDCH to frontline local governments, when a heatwave warning is issued, local governments may reduce or adjust the operation of temporary screening clinics between 2 PM and 4 PM. Temporary screening clinics are to be installed preferably in shaded areas, and if shading is not naturally available, shade tents must be set up.

Additionally, for waiting users, large fans (cooling fans), parasols, ice water, and other necessary items must be provided on-site, and a heat patient transport system must be prepared in case of emergencies.

For medical staff, rest areas (air-conditioned spaces) and sufficient water supply, cooling devices, and means to maintain body temperature must be provided.

Currently, the government operates a total of 162 temporary screening clinics, including 32 additional clinics in the Seoul metropolitan area, to detect COVID-19 cases early.

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