Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province announced on the 5th that patients who underwent lumbar pain relief procedures at a medical institution in Gangneung City reported unusual symptoms, prompting an epidemiological investigation. The patients are complaining of pain, headaches, and decreased consciousness.
The patients showing unusual symptoms are in their 60s to 80s. They are reported to have undergone procedures at the medical institution between June and July. Two are hospitalized in the intensive care unit, three are in general wards, and two have been discharged. One has died.
MSSA was found in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid of most patients. MSSA is classified as a medical-related infection but is not a registered infectious disease. The medical institution ceased operations on the 1st.
The epidemiological investigation is being conducted by the Provincial Infectious Disease Control Support Group, Gangneung City, and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. The investigation covers the medical institution's injection preparation process and has secured the medical devices used in the procedures. A survey is being conducted on 269 individuals who underwent the same procedures within the last two weeks to check for fever and worsening pain. Authorities are preparing for additional patient occurrences.