Kangjin County is expanding its free flu vaccination program for residents aged 15 to 64, starting October 19, in preparation for the winter flu season.
The county announced on October 14 that it has been conducting free flu vaccinations for all residents according to a schedule that began on September 21 for children and pregnant women. Vaccinations for seniors aged 65 and older started on October 6.
Beginning October 19, residents aged 15 to 64 will also be eligible for free flu vaccinations.
This year, to enhance convenience and accessibility, the county has increased participation from private medical institutions. In addition to health centers and clinics, 13 designated medical institutions in the area will offer free vaccinations for residents aged 15 to 64.
The designated medical institutions include Anapa Clinic, Seongmo Clinic, Yonsei Clinic, Oh Chang-geun Clinic, OK Internal Medicine Clinic, Our Internal Medicine Clinic, Jeong Jun-seong Internal Medicine Clinic, New Central Clinic, Chillyang Nara Clinic, Maryang Clinic, Seongjeon Hana Clinic, Byeongyeong Hanguk Clinic, and Byeongyeong Clinic.
Seniors aged 65 and older can currently receive vaccinations at designated medical institutions, and for those in areas where access to medical facilities is difficult, mobile vaccination services are being provided. The health center will begin vaccinations for all age groups on October 19.
As of October 11, a total of 6,413 flu vaccinations have been administered in Kangjin County, representing 20.1% of the total eligible population of 31,864. Among these, 5,404 vaccinations were for seniors aged 65 and older.
Those who have recently contracted the flu but have not yet received this season's vaccination are advised to get vaccinated after recovery. This is because multiple strains of the influenza virus can circulate, and recovery from one strain does not guarantee immunity from another.
However, if individuals experience moderate to severe acute symptoms, they should postpone vaccination until their condition improves and consult with medical professionals to determine the appropriate timing for vaccination. If individuals have already completed the recommended vaccinations for this season, there is no need for additional vaccinations due to contracting the flu.
It takes about two weeks for antibodies to form after vaccination, so the county urges residents to participate in the vaccination program before the peak flu season begins.
The eligibility for free vaccinations varies. Children, pregnant women, and seniors aged 65 and older, who are covered by national support, can receive free vaccinations at designated medical institutions nationwide, regardless of their registered address.
In contrast, the free vaccinations for residents aged 15 to 64, supported by Kangjin County, are available only to those registered as residents of Kangjin County at designated local vaccination sites. Identification is required at the time of vaccination.
COVID-19 vaccinations for seniors aged 65 and older have also been ongoing since October 6. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered on the same day, following a medical assessment, and Kangjin County recommends simultaneous vaccinations to prevent severe illness.
Han Jun-ho, the head of the health center, stated, "In preparation for the winter infectious disease season, I hope that all eligible residents, especially vulnerable groups such as seniors and children, will participate in the vaccination program according to the established schedule. We will strengthen cooperation between health institutions and designated medical facilities to ensure that residents can receive vaccinations safely and conveniently nearby."
Meanwhile, this season's flu vaccination program will continue until April 30, 2027. Since the operating schedules may vary by vaccination site, residents are advised to check the availability and schedule before visiting.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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