Gangwon Region Sees Sharp Rise in 'Breakthrough Infections and Severe Cases'... Province Adds Beds and Staff

Confirmed Cases Aged 60+ Increase from 55 to 164, Breakthrough Infections Surge from 45 to 142

Reference photo [Gangwon-do]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ra Young-cheol] Since the phased return to normal life began this month, breakthrough infections and critically ill patients have surged in the Gangwon region, prompting Gangwon Province health authorities to devise countermeasures.

According to Gangwon Province on the 18th, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases over two weeks in November reached 433, a 52.5% increase compared to before the phased return to normal life was implemented (284 cases).

In particular, confirmed cases among those aged 60 and over rose significantly from 55 to 164 (198%), and breakthrough infections increased from 45 to 142 (216%). New critically ill patients also increased from 7 to 15 (114%).

New cluster infections accounted for 12 cases involving 180 people, representing 30% of the total confirmed cases (600).

The province has more available beds in dedicated hospitals and residential treatment centers compared to the metropolitan area, but considering the recent rise in confirmed cases, it plans to add 68 beds by the 25th of this month. The epidemiological investigation workforce of 314 will also be increased to around 500.

As of the morning of the 18th, the number of new confirmed cases in the Gangwon region is 62, with a cumulative total of 7,844 cases.

Park Dong-joo, Director of the Health, Welfare and Women’s Affairs Bureau, stated, "There is a clear increase in confirmed cases among the elderly aged 60 and over and children and adolescents under 17," urging, "We ask the elderly to actively participate in additional vaccinations."

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