Dozens of new virus cases in South Korea metropolitan area

South Korea continues to see dozens of daily new coronavirus cases in the area of its capital, with transmission linked to care centers.

The Health and Welfare Ministry on Monday reported 37 new virus cases in the country, and 22 of them occurred in the Seoul metropolitan area.

No new deaths were reported on Monday.

Since late May, the country has observed sporadic mass infection around the metropolitan area.

A ministry spokesperson said mass infection continues to occur, particularly in day care centers and nursing facilities for senior citizens.

In total South Korea has now reported 12,121 virus cases, with more than 10,700 of those recovered, and 277 deaths.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

But the virus is highly contagious and can be spread by those with mild or no visible symptoms.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and could lead to death.