COVID-19 Cluster Infection at Gangwon Hwacheon Military Base...Total 58 Cases (Comprehensive)

Additional Testing Results: Over 50 People Confirmed Positive in Bulk

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[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Sehee] A COVID-19 cluster infection has occurred at a military unit in Hwacheon, Gangwon Province, putting the military authorities on high alert.

The Army announced on the 1st at 5 p.m. that a total of 58 confirmed cases had been identified at an Army unit in Hwacheon.

One officer who was tested before returning from leave on the 29th of last month tested positive for the first time at the unit on the 30th, followed by additional tests confirming over 50 more cases in a cluster.

Among the 58 confirmed cases, 57 were breakthrough infections confirmed more than two weeks after completing vaccination, except for one person who had only received the first dose.

The Army reported that most of the confirmed cases are asymptomatic or showing mild symptoms.

Army Chief of Staff Nam Young-shin chaired a major COVID-19 response meeting via video conference on the same day, emphasizing, "Recheck the management of returning personnel from leave and the quarantine system, and create an environment where prompt reporting and rest can be ensured when symptoms appear."

He also instructed to prepare so that additional vaccinations can proceed smoothly.

An Army official stated, "To prevent further spread and ensure stable situation management, we will closely cooperate with local governments and health authorities and take follow-up measures."

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