South Korea begins early national influenza vaccination program

influenza vaccination COVID-19 vaccination national immunization program high-risk groups early flu outbreak

South Korea has launched its national influenza vaccination program for the 2026-2027 season following an early influenza advisory issued by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. The advisory was issued on September 11, more than a month earlier than the previous season, as infection rates among children and adolescents have surged.

Vaccination for children (aged 6 months to 14 years) and pregnant women began on September 21. The eligibility for children has been expanded to include those up to 14 years old. For high-risk elderly populations, vaccinations will be rolled out in stages: those aged 75 and older starting October 6, 70-74 year olds on October 12, and 65-69 year olds on October 15.

In addition to influenza, COVID-19 vaccinations for high-risk groups, including seniors and the immunocompromised, are scheduled to begin in mid-October. Health authorities recommend that seniors receive both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines during the same visit for efficiency. Medical experts note that while vaccines do not entirely prevent infection, they are critical in reducing the risk of severe complications, hospitalization, and death, particularly for high-risk groups.

Entities

Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency · South Korea

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[○ 1 SOURCE] The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued an influenza advisory for the 2026-27 season on September 11. www.sisajournal.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] The age range for free influenza vaccination for children has been expanded from 6 months to 13 years to 6 months to 14 years. www.sisajournal.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] Vaccination for those aged 65 and older will begin sequentially by age group starting October 6. www.sisajournal.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] COVID-19 vaccinations have transitioned from a temporary system to a sustainable essential vaccination system similar to influenza. biz.heraldcorp.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] National influenza vaccinations for children, pregnant women, and those aged 65 and older will be implemented from September 21 to April 30, 2027. www.sisajournal.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] Influenza vaccination in seniors aged 65 and older is known to reduce the risk of hospitalization by 50-60% and death by approximately 80%. www.sisajournal.com