SEOUL (SOUTH KOREA) – South Korea reported 313 new daily COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, the highest number since August. It was found that cluster infections continued to emerge from offices, medical facilities and small gatherings, pushing for tighter social distancing rules imposed by the authorities.
The daily tally has been above 200 for five consecutive days and went beyond 300 for the first time since August, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA).
“We’re in a crisis where there are pessimistic views that predict another nationwide transmission,” Vice Health Minister Kang Do-tae told a meeting.
“Infections are now occurring simultaneously in every corner of our society, real life situations, unlike the past when there were large outbreaks from a specific place or group.”
Of the new cases, 245 were locally transmitted and 68 imported. Nearly 74% of domestic infections came from the greater Seoul area, which included cases linked to a hiking club, a gym, a manufacturing plant and family gatherings.
Total infections are now at 29,311, with 496 deaths.
Health authorities have warned the daily tally could go as high as 400.
“It’s difficult to overcome this new crisis…,” Kang said, urging citizens to implement strict hygiene rules and minimise travel and year-end celebrations.