South Korea launches national influenza vaccination program

South Korea has begun its national influenza vaccination program for the 2026-2027 season following a significant rise in influenza cases. Data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency indicates that influenza outpatient numbers in the 35th week of the year reached 13.3 per 1,000 patients, more than double the rate from the same period last year.

Vaccination schedules vary by demographic. Starting September 21, children aged 6 months to 14 years requiring two doses and pregnant women can receive vaccinations. Children requiring a single dose can begin on September 28. For seniors, vaccinations will be rolled out by age: those 75 and older starting October 12, those aged 70-74 on October 15, and those aged 65-69 on October 19.

In Geoje City, local authorities have announced that due to a shortage of public health doctors, vaccinations will be administered at designated medical institutions rather than local health sub-centers. Health officials recommend that seniors aged 65 and older also consider receiving the COVID-19 vaccine alongside their influenza shot to mitigate the risk of complications such as pneumonia.