Three more cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) have been confirmed, bringing the number of cases in South Korea to 18 as of Monday.
 
The number of people subject to the government’s quarantine measure also sharply increased to about 680. They will be banned from leaving the country from Tuesday.
 
Health authorities said Monday that the three newly confirmed cases had shared the same hospital ward with the first MERS patient between May 15 and 17 or provided care for their family at the hospital around the same time.
 
Health authorities said that of the total 18 cases, five are listed as unstable with one in critical condition.
 
To prevent tertiary transmissions, the government also decided to quarantine potential MERS patients who are considered the most vulnerable. 
 
Among people those who came into close contact with MERS patients, people aged over 50 or those with chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease will be quarantined with extra medical attention and care.
 
Citizens who recently visited the Middle East or have MERS symptoms are advised to call 043-719-7777 to receive proper guidance.