Changwon Special City, "Must Follow Infection Prevention Rules During Summer Vacation"

Mayor Hong Nampyo Urges "Compliance with Infectious Disease Prevention Rules

and Regular Ventilation"

Changwon City in Gyeongnam Province recently urged citizens to comply with infection prevention guidelines during the summer vacation period as COVID-19 shows signs of resurgence.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the number of new COVID-19 cases in the third week of July (7.16.~7.22.) reached 253,825, marking a 35.8% increase compared to the previous week. This significant rise occurred despite the number of confirmed cases having remained stable since the mandatory COVID-19 isolation was lifted on June 1, coinciding with the start of the vacation season.

However, the fatality rate remains low at around 0.03%, and the intensive care unit bed occupancy rate is maintained below 40%, indicating sufficient medical response capacity. As a result, the government’s weekly COVID-19 risk assessment has stayed at the ‘low’ level for 27 consecutive weeks.

The city believes that the increase in cases among teenagers, the age group with the highest incidence, is due to group activities in schools and the operation of air conditioning during the summer. Although most schools began their summer break in the third week of this month, which is expected to reduce infections within schools, infections at private academies and vacation spots remain a concern.

Accordingly, Changwon City urged citizens to strictly follow infection prevention and management guidelines even at vacation destinations. Given that the hot and humid weather leads to more time spent indoors and increased use of air conditioning causing poor ventilation, the city emphasized the importance of regular ventilation to bring in fresh air. It also advised thorough handwashing and wearing masks when experiencing respiratory symptoms to prevent transmission to others.

Mayor Hong Nam-pyo stated, “Even during vacations, it is essential to follow infection prevention guidelines such as proper handwashing and regular ventilation.” He added, “If you have respiratory symptoms, be sure to wear a mask, observe cough etiquette, and promptly seek diagnosis and treatment.”

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