South Korea faces early influenza outbreak with rising cases

South Korea is experiencing an unusually early influenza outbreak, with suspected cases increasing for eight consecutive weeks. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the rate of influenza-like illness (ILI) reached 32.3 per 1,000 people during the 38th week of the year, approximately four times higher than the same period last year.

School-aged children have been most affected, particularly those aged 7 to 12. Due to the rapid rise in cases, health authorities issued an influenza epidemic advisory on September 11, the earliest such warning since the current surveillance system was established in 2011.

In response, the national vaccination program has been accelerated. Vaccinations for children aged 6 months to 14 years and pregnant women began on September 21. Vaccination schedules for seniors aged 65 and older will roll out in stages starting in October. Health officials advise high-risk groups to seek early medical attention and urge the public to maintain hygiene practices, such as hand washing and mask-wearing, especially during holiday gatherings to prevent family transmission.