KMA: "COVID-19 Not Over, Maintain Personal Hygiene"... Mask Removal Is 'Premature'

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] As the government has virtually lifted all social distancing measures except for mask-wearing, the Korean Medical Association (KMA) has emphasized adherence to personal quarantine rules.

On the 26th, the KMA issued a public recommendation stating, "Currently, tens of thousands of COVID-19 cases are still occurring domestically, and the virus remains a threat to high-risk groups," adding, "We must prepare for a COVID-19 resurgence."

The KMA advised that individuals with suspected COVID-19 symptoms (fever, sore throat, body aches, etc.) should self-isolate at home and seek medical consultation at nearby healthcare facilities if symptoms worsen, thereby adhering to personal quarantine guidelines. Furthermore, communities are encouraged to actively support measures such as isolating suspected COVID-19 patients, and workplaces and business sites are recommended to implement regular ventilation and disinfection.

Additionally, the KMA urged the government to establish legal and institutional measures for voluntary self-isolation based on suspected infectious disease symptoms, to proactively review and prepare medical system checks and response plans for a COVID-19 resurgence in consultation with the medical community, and to secure sufficient supplies of oral antiviral treatments.

The KMA also suggested that the government should implement a phased easing of quarantine rules to allow for 'speed control.' The association stated, "The government's announcement to lift outdoor mask mandates is premature given the current domestic COVID-19 infection situation, and a full repeal of the mandatory mask-wearing, which is the most basic personal protective equipment, requires reconsideration." It emphasized, "Mask-wearing remains necessary in enclosed spaces or indoors, during meetings with high-risk groups including the elderly, and is recommended at gatherings such as rallies, performances, events where many people gather, when meeting strangers outdoors, and when visiting medical institutions."

The KMA reiterated, "We emphasize once again that COVID-19 has not yet been completely eradicated in our society," and urged, "We ask all citizens to strictly adhere to personal quarantine measures for the sake of themselves, their families, and to maintain a sustainable healthcare system in our country."

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