A 4 phase extension in the metropolitan area is likely... "Review in 3 steps in non-metropolitan areas"

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It is said that the quarantine authorities have taken the lead in extending the 4 steps of distancing in the metropolitan area. Non-metropolitan areas are also considering a plan to collectively raise them to three stages. The quarantine authorities will announce the relevant contents today (23rd).

This is Yoo Seung-hyun, medical reporter.

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Today is the 12th day of the 4th stage of social distancing in the metropolitan area.

The number of confirmed cases in the metropolitan area, excluding inflows from abroad, is around 1,000 and is not declining.

That is why, at a meeting of related ministries and experts the other day, a majority of opinions were “extending the 4th phase of the metropolitan area by two weeks”

The government announcement is also likely to be a 'four-stage extension', but the extension period is unknown.

Non-metropolitan areas where the proportion of confirmed cases has risen to 35% is also a problem.

Last weekend, non-metropolitan movement increased by 0.9% compared to the previous week and 5.3% from two weeks ago.

Moving from an area with a high level of distancing to a location with a low level of distancing is creating an actual spread of infection.

The quarantine authorities said, "We are also considering upgrading to stage 3 in non-metropolitan areas."

However, he added, "The wide variation in the number of confirmed cases by region is a point of concern."

In non-metropolitan areas like the metropolitan area, there is also discussion about restricting the number of gatherings in the evening.

[Kim Bu-gyeom/Prime Minister (last 16th): If the number of confirmed cases continues to increase, I would like to make it clear that there is no choice but to limit the number of gatherings after 6 pm even outside the metropolitan area.]

Restrict access to places where people gather

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Alternatively, the mandatory electronic access list can be extended to non-metropolitan department stores, etc.

Some experts are arguing for stronger measures taken by some European countries.

These measures are equivalent to a ban on business of restaurants and cafes after 6 pm or a curfew at night, but quarantine authorities are not yet reviewing them.