The Ministry of Health (MOH) announced on June 6 that the spread of respiratory diseases such as seasonal influenza and COVID-19 may increase during the rainy season.

The rainy season may increase the spread of respiratory diseases such as seasonal influenza and COVID-19. COVID-19 is no longer classified as a global pandemic, but is considered a local disease like seasonal influenza. Although there is currently no concern about the spread and death of these diseases in our country, the statement urges the public to take the following precautions to prevent the spread of these diseases.

Those with symptoms of recent respiratory diseases such as fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, etc. should avoid going to crowded places to prevent spreading them to others. If one has to go, he or she needs to wear a mask properly, and cover mouth and nose when not wearing a mask. If someone coughs, cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or flexed elbow. If someone has severe symptoms, immediately go to the nearest hospital and health center for medical treatment. Personal protective measures include washing your hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. COVID-19 vaccines effectively protect against the spread of COVID-19 variants, severe symptoms, and death. Therefore, the MOH has issued a statement urging the elderly, people with diabetes, chronic lung disease, cancer, and pregnant women who are at high risk of severe illness and death if infected to receive additional COVID-19 vaccinations.