# South Korea influenza vaccination and healthcare trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-korea-influenza-vaccination-and-healthcare-trends
> Updated: 2026-09-10T09:16:18.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 4.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has issued an influenza epidemic alert following a significant and early surge in cases. Influenza-like illness rates have escalated, with suspected outpatient cases reaching 25.3 per 1,000 people. This figure is approximately double the seasonal threshold and nearly four times the level recorded during the same period last year.

Concerns regarding a ‘twindemic’ have intensified as COVID-19 hospitalizations also rise. While COVID-19 numbers remain lower than the previous year, the simultaneous increase in both respiratory viruses has prompted calls for vigilance. The spread is particularly pronounced among infants and school-aged children (7–12 years), coinciding with the start of the new school semester.

Medical experts, including Professor Park Wan-beom of Seoul National University Hospital, emphasize the importance of distinguishing influenza—characterized by sudden high fever, chills, and muscle aches—from the common cold and COVID-19. High-risk groups, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying conditions, are urged to seek early treatment to prevent complications like pneumonia.

To mitigate risks, health officials recommend that seniors aged 65 and older consider receiving the COVID-19 vaccine alongside their influenza shot. The national free influenza vaccination program is scheduled to begin on September 21, prioritizing children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Authorities are also monitoring the supply of vaccines and antiviral treatments to ensure adequate availability during the peak season.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-10: South Korea issues influenza epidemic alert amid rising COVID-19 cases

South Korea has issued an influenza epidemic alert as cases surge earlier than usual, raising concerns about a simultaneous rise in COVID-19 infections, or ‘twindemic,’ especially among children.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-issues-influenza-advisory-amid-early-virus-surge

### 2026-09-08: South Korea launches national influenza vaccination program

South Korea has launched its national influenza vaccination program amid a surge in cases, with schedules staggered for children, pregnant women, and seniors to prevent respiratory complications.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-launches-national-influenza-vaccination-program

### 2026-08-26: South Korea healthcare: Rising vaccine costs and expanded pharmacy access

South Korea faces rising influenza vaccine costs for private clinics and a government push to expand the range of emergency medicines available at convenience stores to improve nighttime accessibility.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-healthcare-rising-vaccine-costs-and-expanded-pharmacy-access

### 2026-08-25: South Korea expands free influenza vaccination to 14-year-olds

South Korea is expanding its free influenza vaccination program to include 14-year-olds. The rollout begins September 21, targeting children, pregnant women, and seniors to curb seasonal virus spread.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-korea-expands-free-influenza-vaccination-to-14-year-olds

---
Cite as: South Korea influenza vaccination and healthcare trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-korea-influenza-vaccination-and-healthcare-trends