The government “confirms migration as soon as possible due to a virus that has mutated the dead after entering the country”

[아시아경제 서소정 기자] When it was confirmed that one of the family members who recently entered the country had a new coronavirus infection (Corona 19) after death, the government decided to check whether he was infected with the mutant virus through sample analysis.

Tae-ho Yoon, head of Accident Response Headquarters, said at a regular briefing at the Security and Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters (middle script) held on the 27th. He said: of the analysis (WGS), and because a confirmed case occurred in the family, we will analyze the entire genome in the same way and announce the results. ”

The presence of a mutant virus infection is confirmed by a whole genome analysis method that compares and analyzes all nucleotide sequences of the virus.

Currently, the government has suspended flights and stopped issuing quarantine waivers in relation to the UK mutant virus. All participants from the UK are quarantined for 14 days without exception, and an additional diagnostic test is performed before the quarantine is released.

In particular, genetic testing is planned for confirmed cases from the UK and South Africa where the mutant virus has occurred.

“We will provide separate guidance as soon as the negotiations are completed,” Yun said. “A consultation between the relevant ministries is currently underway on what measures to take in relation to foreign immigrants.”

In investigating the possibility of a mutant virus among confirmed patients who have entered the country so far, he added: “If the mutant virus had been confirmed in Korea, we would have provided guidance immediately.” .

Reporter Seo So-jung [email protected]