"Second wave", the term itself misdirects focus on
actions needed to minimize the impact of COVID-19. Minimize is the key. It seems that COVID-19 is here for the long
haul so we need to adopt measures to reduce the impact as much as possible.
Korea has experienced a second wave. I call it a ripple rather than a wave as the
numbers are a fraction of what we experienced in the 'first wave'. But still, there are important lessons to be
learned.
The most important and effective measure requires
individuals and organizations to practice basic hygiene. Korea's second wave is traced back to a
couple of 'super spreaders'. One
infectious person visited a number of night clubs in early May. From there, it spread to a woman who went to
a birthday party and then to someone who worked at the warehouse of one of
Korea's major online shopping mall delivery companies. With hundreds of people working (and eating)
in close proximity, it quickly spread to over one hundred colleagues. Frequent hand washing, wearing a mask in
groups, social distancing – ESPECIALLY WHEN EATING and staying home when
experiencing even mild symptoms are key behaviors that need to be internalized
by everyone. The government continues to
keep the wave in check with the "Three T's": Test, Track and Treat. (Everyone loves a
catchy acronym!) However, it takes individual
initiative to curtail the spread of COVID-19.
Individuals must take responsibility so the wave does not
begin. The government must remain
vigilant to carry out the test, trace and treat regime so the ripple does not
grow to a wave or a tsunami.
Peter Underwood, Managing Partner
For up to date information: Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare Infection Rate Tracker
IRC CONSULTING
Suite 1705, Officia Building, 92, Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea 03186
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