[Hinews] SEOUL, South Korea — The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) reported on Friday that COVID-19 hospitalizations have increased for eight consecutive weeks. Between August 17 and 23, 367 patients were admitted with COVID-19, continuing a steady rise observed since late June.

Adults aged 65 and older accounted for 60.2% of hospitalizations, followed by those aged 50–64 (18.2%) and 19–49 (10.3%). The KDCA reported that the national COVID-19 test positivity rate has stabilized at 32.6% over the past three weeks, while wastewater surveillance has shown a steady increase in viral concentrations since June.

Health officials expect the outbreak to peak soon, consistent with previous summer waves, but warned the surge may persist for another one to two weeks. The agency is also monitoring the impact of school reopenings, which could further influence transmission dynamics.

COVID-19 hospitalizations in South Korea have risen for eight straight weeks. High-risk groups are advised to avoid gatherings and wear masks. (Image: ClipArtKorea)
COVID-19 hospitalizations in South Korea have risen for eight straight weeks. High-risk groups are advised to avoid gatherings and wear masks. (Image: ClipArtKorea)

Dr. Seung-kwan Lim, head of the KDCA, urged high-risk groups—especially older adults and immunocompromised individuals—to avoid crowded settings and wear masks indoors. He also reinforced standard preventive measures such as handwashing, proper ventilation, and cough etiquette. Healthcare workers and visitors to medical facilities are strongly advised to wear masks.

The KDCA said it will continue monitoring the situation closely and coordinate with ministries and experts to enable a rapid response if necessary.

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