Authorities: "Our country's quarantine pass is not stricter than overseas" (Comprehensive)

"Schedule and Utilization Plan for Oral Therapeutics to Be Announced as Early as the 12th"

On the 10th, a notice informing the mandatory application of the quarantine pass was installed at the entrance of the Lotte Department Store main branch in Jung-gu, Seoul. From this day, large-scale stores such as shopping malls, marts, department stores, agricultural and marine products distribution centers, and bookstores with an area of 3,000㎡ or more are added to the mandatory application targets of the quarantine pass (vaccination certificate and negative test confirmation system). Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] The quarantine authorities stated that the current vaccination certificate and negative test confirmation system (quarantine pass) in South Korea is not operated at a stricter level compared to major overseas countries.

On the morning of the 11th, Park Hyang, head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) quarantine general team, said at a regular briefing, "South Korea recognizes 'exceptions' to some extent. It is an effort to minimize infringement on basic rights."

Park said, "Germany and Italy do not recognize negative test confirmations," and gave the example, "France applies the quarantine pass even to public transportation." However, he added, "Of course, there are still criticisms that the 'reasons for exception recognition are too narrow,' so we are working to supplement it."

The current exceptions recognized by the government for the quarantine pass include those with negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test results, individuals under 18 years old, COVID-19 recovered patients, and those with medical reasons.

When asked about the effectiveness of the quarantine pass, he replied, "The purpose is to protect the unvaccinated themselves and to prevent additional transmission caused by infections from the unvaccinated." He emphasized, "The means to prevent the spread of infection are very limited," and added, "If the quarantine pass is relaxed, the only option would be to strengthen social distancing measures."

"Introduction Schedule and Utilization Plan for Oral Therapeutics to be Announced as Early as Tomorrow"

Along with this, Park announced, "We expect to provide guidance on the introduction schedule and utilization plan for (COVID-19) oral therapeutics as early as tomorrow." It is anticipated that on the 12th, the domestic arrival schedule of Pfizer's oral therapeutic Paxlovid, distribution plans to various health centers and hospitals, prescription targets, and delivery methods will be announced.

Previously, the government signed purchase contracts for a total of 1,004,000 doses of oral therapeutics, including 762,000 doses of Pfizer's Paxlovid and 242,000 doses of Merck & Company (MSD)'s Molnupiravir. It is reported that about 20,000 doses of Paxlovid will be introduced this week.

Regarding the possibility of easing current social distancing measures, which limit private gatherings to four people and restrict operating hours of restaurants and cafes to 9 p.m., he said, "The quarantine indicators are showing improvement," but explained, "Because risk factors such as the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant remain very high, we will continue to gather opinions through the quarantine and medical divisions and the daily recovery committee tomorrow (the 12th)."

"Discussion Underway on Fourth Dose Vaccination and Participation of Clinic-Level Medical Institutions in Home Treatment"

The fourth dose of vaccination is also under discussion. Park said, "For the Pfizer vaccine, the scope approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) is still for those aged 12 and older," and added, "Vaccination for ages 5 to 11 is currently being analyzed and reviewed based on domestic and international research results and national policy trends. If the MFDS grants approval in the future, we will specifically plan the timing of introduction for pediatric vaccines."

The day before, President Moon Jae-in ordered the quarantine authorities to quickly finalize the expansion of vaccination for children and adolescents and the fourth dose. Park said, "Since the third dose vaccination is currently underway, expert opinions on the quarantine situation, duration, and effectiveness of vaccination are needed."

Additionally, he revealed that discussions are ongoing regarding the participation of clinic-level medical institutions in home treatment in preparation for the spread of the Omicron variant. Regarding the participation of clinic-level medical institutions in Seoul, Park said, "The discussions are almost mature, but we are conducting deeper consultations on issues raised by medical associations."

He stated, "There are quite a few barriers to overcome for clinics to participate in home treatment," and added, "Since very specific discussions are underway, we need to observe the situation further to stabilize the system." "It is predicted that the number of confirmed cases due to Omicron could reach tens of thousands, or even up to the hundred-thousand range in the most severe forecasts, which the current medical system cannot handle."

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