2026-2027 COVID-19 national vaccination program will begin tomorrow (12th).
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) on the 11th, this year's COVID-19 vaccination will target individuals aged 65 and older, those with weakened immune systems, and residents of high-risk facilities, running until June 30 of next year. Eligible individuals can receive the vaccine for free at public health centers and designated medical institutions nationwide.
The start date for vaccinations varies by age group. Those aged 70 and older (born before December 31, 1956) can begin on the 12th, while those aged 65-69 (born between January 1, 1957, and December 31, 1961) can start on the 15th. Immunocompromised individuals aged 12 and older and residents of high-risk facilities can also begin vaccinations on the 12th.
The flu vaccination program is also being rolled out in phases. Individuals aged 75 and older began receiving their shots on the 6th, while those aged 70-74 can start on the 12th, and those aged 65-69 can begin on the 15th. Free flu vaccinations for those aged 65 and older will be available until April 30 of next year.
The KDCA recommends simultaneous vaccination for COVID-19 and flu shots, citing no concerns regarding immune interference or safety. Therefore, if individuals qualify for both free vaccinations, they can visit a healthcare facility once to receive both shots.
This year's COVID-19 vaccinations will utilize new XFG vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, designed to address circulating variants. Generally, the vaccination protocol is one dose for the general population and two doses for immunocompromised individuals. Some patients, such as those who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplants, will have a different vaccination schedule.
Even if individuals have a history of COVID-19 vaccinations, they can still receive this season's vaccine, provided at least three months (90 days) have passed since their last shot. Those who have previously contracted COVID-19 can also be vaccinated, but they should wait at least three months from their confirmed infection date.
Starting this season, the COVID-19 national vaccination program has transitioned from a temporary to a mandatory vaccination program. This change aims to reduce the risk of hospitalization, severe illness, and death among high-risk groups, such as the elderly, amid ongoing COVID-19 variant outbreaks.
It is recommended to receive vaccinations when in good health. After receiving the vaccine, individuals should remain at the healthcare facility for 20-30 minutes to monitor for any adverse reactions.
Information on available healthcare facilities and vaccine availability can be checked on the KDCA's vaccination assistance website. Immunocompromised individuals and residents of high-risk facilities may need to provide a medical certificate, opinion letter, or confirmation of facility admission.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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