South Korea: Authorities extend some COVID-19 restrictions through September 20 /update 32

Event

South Korean authorities announced that some restrictions previously implemented to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have been extended following a rise in the number of confirmed cases in the country. The nationwide Level 2 restrictions have been extended until at least September 20. Under the level 2 restrictions, a stay-at-home order has been advised, with the exception of essential goods and work. Additionally, indoor gatherings are permitted to a maximum of 50 people, while outdoor gatherings are permitted to a maximum of 100 people.

Night clubs, buffet restaurants, and private schools with over 300 students must close. All beaches remain closed and companies have been advised to allow employees to work from home where possible. Protective face coverings remain mandatory in public places.

As of Friday, September 4, health authorities have confirmed a total of 20,842 COVID-19 cases with 331 associated deaths. Further spread of the virus is expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Since then, human-to-human transmission of the virus has been confirmed.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, and tiredness. Some patients may experience other symptoms such as body pains, nasal congestion, headache, conjunctivitis, sore throat, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell or a rash on skin or discoloration of fingers or toes. These symptoms (in most cases mild) appear gradually. Generally, most patients (around 80 percent) recover from the disease without being hospitalized.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone non-essential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical care urgently and share your previous travel history with your health care provider.