Seoul

Tests will be limited to pets that show symptoms – including fever, coughing, breathing difficulties and runny noses – after coming into contact with humans who have tested positive.

The capital region could face a complete lockdown if the current surge isn’t contained.

As the country moves into winter, fears are growing of case numbers spiraling out of control.

Asymptomatic patients are driving the surge in new cases, frustrating efforts to control transmission.

'We’re at a critical juncture of facing a large number of infections nationwide.'