New Confirmed Cases 68,632... Highest Death Toll in 55 Days (Update)

31 COVID-19 Deaths... 130 Critically Ill Patients

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] While the number of new COVID-19 cases dropped below 70,000 for the first time in four days, the number of critically ill patients and deaths showed an increasing trend.

According to the Central Disease Control Headquarters on the 22nd, as of midnight, 68,632 new COVID-19 cases were added domestically, bringing the total cumulative cases to 19,077,659. Among these, 323 cases were imported from overseas.

The number of new cases fell below 70,000 for the first time in four days since the 26,282 cases reported on the 18th, due to the weekend effect of reduced testing. Compared to the 15th, a week ago, the number increased by 1.76 times.

The number of new deaths was 31, marking the highest figure in 55 days since May 28 (36 deaths). This is 14 more than the previous day (17 deaths). By age group, deaths were highest among those aged 80 and above with 17, followed by 7 in their 70s, 3 each in their 60s and 50s, and 1 in their 40s. The cumulative death toll stands at 24,825, with a fatality rate of 0.13%.

The number of critically ill patients also increased by 23 from the previous day, totaling 130. The nationwide critical care bed occupancy rate is 18.2%, with 17.2% in the metropolitan area and 21.2% in non-metropolitan areas.

As of midnight, the fourth dose vaccination rate among those in their 50s is 2.7%. The fourth dose vaccination rate among immunocompromised individuals, patients with underlying conditions, residents and workers in nursing hospitals/facilities, and mental health promotion facilities under 50 years old is 21.9%.

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