Coronavirus in Korea: March 2020 update

Overview

Even though the coronavirus pandemic is spreading internationally, the current situation of coronavirus in Korea is getting more stable every week.

According to the Central Accident Investigation Headquarter of Korea  the number of new confirmed cases in Korea is decreasing, whereas the daily number of people released from quarantine is almost twice higher. Korea shows the least number of confirmed cases on the last week, comparing to other countries with major outbreaks. The main reasons of this positive dynamic are active countermeasures of the Korean government.

Coronavirus outbreak dynamic in different countries

Easy and fast COVID-19 test

Coronavirus testing widely available for both Koreans and foreigners residing in Korea. The network of 96 laboratories across the country is proceeding thousands of tests daily in order to reduce the spread of coronavirus in Korea. The current number of tests performed is 338 036 as of March 23, 2020.

The number of Covid-19 tests in Korea, 2020.03.23

Anyone with or without symptoms has an easy access to the Covid-19 test. In case the virus test is positive, the government covers the expenses for medical examination and treatments. The test is also free if it is prescribed by a doctor according to the symptoms no matter if the result would be positive or negative.

There are various ways for getting sampled, including less risky and faster drive-thru clinic way. It can reduce the burden on hospitals and reduce risk for health workers. The examination is conducting patient’s health questionnaire, fever check and sample through the window while still being present in the car. The time period of the test has also been shorted from 1 hour to only 10 minutes.
These measures have put a huge impact on controlling the coronavirus epidemic inside the country and stabilizing the situation. The World Health Organization chose Korea for best practices in response to Covid-19.

Online map of COVID-19 patients

Another factor that played a huge role in a current positive change is is that the government is making information public. For example, the GPS locations of people confirmed for COVID-19 is available on an app or Coronamap website so that others can avoid those areas. As questionable as that may be from a privacy standpoint, it may help people feel informed and in control of their health.

Social distancing

South Korea has also been practicing social distancing to try to stem an increase in cases. With a population of about 51 million people, they’ve closed schools and offices and canceled large gatherings. There are thermal imaging cameras at entrances to buildings and people in costume in public spaces reminding others to wash their hands, according to BBC.

COVID-19 countermeasures in ID Hospital

From the early days of the outbreak, ID hospital has been managing every visitor’s safety through all stages from reservation to checkups before walking into the hospital to ensure the safety.

We have implemented thorough disinfection and management of the entire hospital, shuttle bus and hotel.
The regular disinfection of the hospital’s building is being held on each floor’s lobby, consultation and medical rooms, ID Hospital dermatology building and ID Hospital dental clinic. The shuttle bus used for pick up / drop off of our visitors is disinfected before and after each passenger. Also the hand antiseptic before the boarding is provided for free. As for the designated hotel, the hotel lobby, corridors and guest rooms are disinfected on a regular basis. Each hotel’s guest is getting temperature and fever check. ID Hospital has also implemented an entry check system, which includes obligatory hand disinfection, temperature check with thermal sensing camera and infrared thermometer. Entry sticker is attached after all procedures are completed.

We do our best to create a secure medical environment for each and every of our patients.

Feel safe when visiting us!

Career during coronavirus pandemic: tips how to act

Career during coronavirus pandemic: tips how to act

Since the Coronavirus pandemic has gone internationally it affected almost each and every aspect of our private and social life. Quarantine, self-isolation, social distancing and other consequences of the Covid-19 have an impact on a lot of aspects of our daily routine, including working and career. Here are several tips of how to work efficiently and develop you career during coronavirus pandemic, when it’s hard to socialize and discover opportunities offline.

Stay active online

As coronavirus is spreading rapidly around the world it’s getting almost impossible to gather and connect with other people naturally due to the safety measures. Luckily, we all have access to online communities where you can interact daily through e-mails, social media or apps. Be active in discussions, offer solutions and help to someone in need, share resources and news. You will see that your online life during quarantine can bring you a lot of benefits in the future.

Stay connected to your network

Use the possibility to develop your business connections during the pandemic. Keep in touch with your customers and colleagues remotely, update them on recent news connected to your work field, provide help and assistance if it’s under your jurisdiction. The more you act and stay connected, the stronger relationship you can build. You contribution and encouragement now can bring you a lot of benefits later.

Reach your network from the past

Even though your current network is important, don’t forget to reach individuals that you haven’t kept in touch with. With the growth of social channels you can easily find and send a message to your former colleague or classmate. Don’t underestimate the importance of these connections because it’s the easiest way to expand your social circle and find new opportunities.

Support each other as a community

Whether you can help or in a need of help yourself, don’t hesitate to talk about it. In a time of world pandemic we can contribute and help each other as a community. The problems can be solved much faster within a network and it can also help to deeper the trust from both sides.

Stand out to your employer

In the crisis it’s very important to reach a collaboration and connection between colleagues, departments, suppliers and customers. It’s the best time for you to show your problem solver’s skill to your boss. Negotiate and build new relationship actively in order to promote yourself and develop your career in the future.

It’s ok, if there is no response

Coronavirus epidemic has changed people’s life, and you need to consider it when reaching your acquaintances. Even though for some people the quarantine might sound only like an extra vacation, some people are having a hard time taking care of their family, working extra hours or handling other problems caused by the virus. Take it in consideration and move on to someone else.

Try to follow these tips so you can benefit from the quarantine and develop your career during coronavirus pandemic.