Operating a National Hotline in Korea During the COVID-19Pandemic
10.24171/j.phrp.2020.11.6.06
- Author:
Rok SONG
1
;
Yuh Seog CHOI
;
Jae Young KO
Author Information
1. Division of Immunization Program, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Osong, Korea
- Publication Type:Brief Report
- From:
Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives
2020;11(6):380-382
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The importance of effective communication cannot be overestimated during a pandemic. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency national 1339 hotline has been in operation since the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus outbreak in 2016. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and provides accurate, reliable information based upon the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency guidelines in response to queries. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the 1339 hotline received callers’ questions about symptoms and the implications of their actions regarding the epidemic. Through the 1339 hotline, callers received the upto-date information that enabled them to protect themselves as well as others from COVID-19. This public service may have influenced on reduced risk of virus transmission in Korea.
