Government "Rapid Introduction of COVID-19 and Flu Simultaneous Diagnostic Kits" 추진

Published 05 Nov.2020 09:23(KST)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The government is discussing a plan to swiftly introduce diagnostic kits that can simultaneously detect infections of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and influenza (seasonal flu).

Kang Do-tae, the 1st General Coordinator of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH), stated at the CDSCH meeting held at the Government Complex Sejong on the 5th, "We are consulting with related ministries such as the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on a plan to promptly introduce COVID-19 and flu simultaneous diagnostic kits at screening clinics, public relief hospitals, and other quarantine sites."

The government is also promoting a plan to apply health insurance coverage for antiviral drugs for high-risk groups suspected of having the flu starting from mid-this month.

Kang, the 1st General Coordinator, said, "As temperatures drop and the air becomes dry, seasonal risk factors such as the flu are increasing," adding, "Even before the flu epidemic, we are promoting a plan to apply health insurance coverage for antiviral drugs preemptively for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and others suspected of having the flu regardless of test results."

Meanwhile, at the CDSCH meeting on the same day, plans to strengthen quarantine management at golf courses were discussed.

Kang, the 1st General Coordinator, said, "Outdoor physical activities such as golf and hiking themselves have a low risk of infection, but infections are occurring as high-risk activities such as after-party meals and drinking accompany them," and urged, "Related ministries and local governments should carefully respond by considering risk factors for each activity."