Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


South Korea's Coronavirus Battle Isn't Over Yet

William Gallo

   SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - Even though South Korea has drastically reduced
   its number of new coronavirus infections, public health officials and
   analysts are warning it is too soon to declare victory against what is
   likely to be a long-term pandemic.

   For five out of six days this week, South Korea has reported fewer than
   100 new infections. That is down significantly from a peak of 909 new
   cases February 29.

   South Korea has fought the virus without resorting to widespread
   restrictions on movement or forced closure of businesses, as seen in
   other countries. Instead, it made coronavirus tests widely available,
   conducted data-driven investigations of infection paths and quickly
   isolated those exposed.

   But the success is fragile, authorities warn, especially since
   dangerous cluster infections continue to emerge in settings like
   churches, offices and nursing homes.

   "We cannot let our guards down yet," said Yoon Tae-ho, a senior health
   ministry official, at a regular briefing Friday. "We believe that we
   will still see a continued and prolonged coronavirus outbreak."

.