"Gargling with Saltwater..." North Korea's 'COVID-19 Treatment Method' Featured in Rodong Sinmun

Most Deaths Result from Drug Misuse and Abuse... Emphasis on Requiring Doctor's Prescription

North Korea, Kim Jong-un's First Public Appearance Wearing a Mask [Image Source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Se-eun] The North Korean Rodong Sinmun introduced treatment methods for patients with fever amid the spread of COVID-19.

On the 14th, Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the Workers' Party of Korea, stated, "Above all, maintaining proper health management (to avoid illness and aim for longevity) is the most important," and recommended △ getting sufficient rest △ drinking plenty of water △ eating nutritious meals △ rinsing the mouth with salt water △ consuming foods rich in vitamins such as yogurt.

It mentioned that treatment methods vary depending on symptoms in mild cases and referred to the antiviral drug injection 'recombinant human interferon α-2b.'

The newspaper also advised using antibiotics such as penicillin when bacterial infection is suspected.

As symptomatic treatments, it recommended using antipyretic analgesics like paracetamol for fever and anti-inflammatory drugs like Volteren for severe muscle pain.

Additionally, it warned that mild patients should use medications only under a doctor's prescription if they have drug hypersensitivity and cautioned against using many different antipyretics in a short period.

On the same day, the North Korean State Emergency Anti-epidemic Command reported to Chairman Kim Jong-un regarding COVID-19 deaths, stating, "Most casualties are caused by negligence such as overdosing on drugs without proper scientific treatment knowledge."

The newspaper emphasized the importance of introducing traditional Korean medicine treatment methods called 'Goryeo treatment methods' for mild patients and recommended Paedoksan, Angung Uhwanghwan, and Sanghyang Uhwang Cheongsimhwan.

It also introduced a folk remedy involving decocting and consuming honeysuckle flowers.

The newspaper added, "Severe patients should receive specialized treatments such as oxygen therapy, measures against circulatory failure, and steroid treatment under the guidance of medical personnel (officials)."

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