Government Secures 1,700 Emergency Treatment Beds for New Infectious Disease Response

The government urged adherence to personal hygiene rules as respiratory patients are increasing despite the stabilization of COVID-19. It also announced plans to expand emergency treatment beds to respond to new infectious diseases.

Minsu Park, First Senior Coordinator of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (Second Vice Minister of Health and Welfare).

On the 12th, Park Minsu, the 1st General Coordinator of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (Vice Minister of Health and Welfare), said in his opening remarks at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters meeting, "The average daily number of confirmed COVID-19 cases last week was in the 10,000 range, showing a stable trend since the end of February."

He added, "The nationwide weekly COVID-19 risk level has been recorded as 'low' for 12 consecutive weeks, and the severe bed occupancy rate was 34.5%, indicating sufficient capacity." Regarding additional COVID-19 vaccinations during the winter season, he explained, "Vaccinations have not been completely stopped, but the number of medical institutions able to provide vaccinations is decreasing," emphasizing that vaccinations are still possible.

Along with this, General Coordinator Park emphasized, "We will also accelerate preparations for new infectious diseases," stating, "We will expand 1,700 emergency treatment beds that can be immediately utilized in the event of a large-scale infectious disease outbreak to respond quickly and effectively in the early stages of an epidemic and minimize confusion caused by bed mobilization."

He also noted that with the arrival of spring and increased outdoor activities, respiratory patients such as those with colds are increasing due to the relaxation of mask-wearing mandates and large temperature differences, and requested, "To prevent respiratory diseases, please thoroughly follow personal hygiene rules such as hand washing, ventilation, and cough etiquette."

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