부산시보

City Hall is using all of its administrative power towards an all-out containment of the spread of COVID-19. To keep those in the city safe, Busan is expanding its disaster response system to be available 24 hours. The city is also releasing detailed information on the routes taken and locations visited by confirmed patients via its social media.  

△ Mayor Oh is dedicated to containing the virus.

Additionally, Busan has secured approximately 600 beds in hospitals as a fundamental measure to contain the spread. City Hall plans to expand the number of epidemiological investigators and hospital beds in cooperation with 34 select medical centers. Mayor Oh Keodon revealed that he will use all of his capabilities and resources to protect citizens, residents and tourists from COVID-19. 

Symptoms of the virus, which can take days or weeks to show themselves, include coughing, fever and body aches. The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that anyone experiencing symptoms call 1339 for Korean service and 1345 for foreign language service. Those who are instructed to visit a medical center should detail their recent travel history and where they have been in the city leading up to their visit. 

Good hygiene is the best defense. Frequent hand washing is the top priority. Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Cover any sneezes and coughs with the inside of the elbow or sleeve. Do not go to crowded spaces or use public transportation if able. At-risk groups, including senior citizens, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses, should wear masks when outdoors. 

The virus has led to the cancelation and postponements of many events, including the 2020 Hana Bank World Team Table Tennis Championships Busan, which was originally going to be held in March. It will now be held in June.