PHWR Public Health Weekly Report

Vol.18 No.34, August 28, 2025 Article TypePolicy NotePublic Health IssueReview & Perspective

• Review & Perspective 2025-08-28

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  Analysis of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Prediction Studies in the Republic of Korea

  Hyun-Kyung Kim , Boyeong Ryu , Min-Gyu Yoo , Jaehoon Kim , Kyung-Duk Min

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(34): 1261-1276 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2025.18.34.1

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: During the initial outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), numerous predictive studies were conducted amid high uncertainty regarding the characteristics of the virus, and the study results were considered in the policymaking process.
  Methods: This study systematically analyzed research papers that predicted the spread of COVID-19 in the Republic of Korea. Focusing on 138 studies published between 2020 and October 15, 2024, it examined the data and methodologies employed and explored ways to enhance the utility of predictive outcomes in managing infectious disease outbreaks.
  Results: These methodologies included mathematical models, statistical models, and machine learning–based approaches to predict COVID-19 spread patterns. Beyond forecasting future outbreak trends, these predictive models were also instrumental in evaluating existing measures and proposing effective policies through scenario-based assumptions.
  Conclusions: This study’s findings highlight the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in developing predictive models to effectively prepare for and respond to infectious diseases. By doing so, it aims to minimize the public health impacts of infectious diseases.

• Policy Note 2025-08-28

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  Overview of Infectious Disease Information System and Big Data Platform

  Jonghyeon Park , Seonyeong Ha , Seongsun Kim

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(34): 1277-1291 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2025.18.34.2

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: To present the system capabilities of the restructured Infectious Disease Information System and Big Data Platform, aimed at improving the speed and efficiency of the response to infectious diseases.
  Methods: Following the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the limitations of existing systems were analyzed. In response, the core values and strategic directions for the new system were established, along with detailed implementation plans.
  Results: The Infectious Disease Information System, built on unique identification data, enhanced data accuracy and usability by linking all phases of the infectious disease response to public information systems. Standardized reporting formats have unified analytical frameworks for various diseases. In addition, statistical production and customized analysis are supported through the Infectious Disease Big Data Platform and flexibility is secured by migrating to the National Information Resources Service to ensure stable processing of large-scale information.
  Conclusions: By standardizing and integrating disease surveillance and control data, the proposed system enables timely and accurate responses to infectious diseases. It is expected to function as essential infrastructure for future pandemic preparedness and enhanced infectious disease management.

• Public Health Issue 2025-08-28

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  Seasonal Influenza Virus Activity during the 2024–2025 Season: Based on the Republic of Korea’s National Pathogen Surveillance Data

  Nam-Joo Lee , Jee Eun Rhee , SangHee Woo , Jaehee Lee , Eun-Jin Kim

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(34): 1292-1300 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2025.18.34.3

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of influenza virus circulation during the 2024–2025 season in the Republic of Korea (ROK), with a focus on recent trends in detection rates and subtype distribution.
  Methods: Weekly detection rates, subtype distribution, and age-specific patterns of influenza virus were analyzed using surveillance data from week 36 of 2024 to week 17 of 2025 as reported by the Korea Respiratory Virus Integrated Surveillance System.
  Results: ROK’s 2024–2025 influenza season exhibited two distinct epidemic waves. The first wave began in late 2024 and peaked in week 1 of 2025, with a detection rate of 62.9%, representing a 20–30% increase compared to previous seasons. During this period, a notable increase in detection was observed among individuals over age 50, with influenza A viruses predominating. The second wave emerged in March 2025 and was driven by an increase in influenza B virus detection, which accounted for more than 50% of all influenza cases. The circulation of B virus was particularly prominent among school-aged children (7–18 years) and lasted longer than previous seasons.
  Conclusions: The 2024–2025 influenza season was characterized by increased detection levels compared with prior seasons, prolonged circulation of influenza B viruses, and a marked rise in infections among older adults. These findings suggest an ongoing shift in population immunity following the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. To respond effectively to the evolving patterns of respiratory virus circulation, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency will continue to strengthen its timely detection and response efforts through enhanced surveillance systems.