Gangwon State to Move Up Flu Vaccinations as Influenza Outbreak Arrives Early

【Financial News, Chuncheon—Reporter Kim Gi-seop】Gangwon State will move up its influenza vaccination schedule by up to 10 days as the influenza-like illness rate in the region has risen more than sixfold in one month.
Gangwon State said on the 18th that it had begun proactively adjusting its vaccination schedule to protect the health of vulnerable groups after an influenza epidemic advisory was issued more than a month earlier than usual. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) issued the influenza epidemic advisory on the 11th.
The influenza-like illness rate per 1,000 outpatients surged from 7 nationwide and 3.8 in Gangwon during week 32 (Aug. 2–8) to 25.3 nationwide and 24.1 in Gangwon during week 36 (Aug. 30–Sept. 5). In Gangwon, the rate rose particularly sharply, nearly tripling from 8.6 in week 35 (Aug. 23–29) to 24.1 in week 36 in just one week.
Accordingly, children’s vaccinations, which were initially scheduled to begin sequentially with those eligible for two doses, will instead be administered together on the 21st to children eligible for either their first or second dose to prevent the spread of group infections. Vaccinations for pregnant women will also begin on the 21st as scheduled.
Vaccinations for older adults, who face a high risk of influenza complications, will also begin earlier to prevent severe illness. The start date has been moved up from Oct. 12 to Oct. 6 for those aged 75 and older, from Oct. 15 to Oct. 12 for those aged 70 to 74, and from Oct. 19 to Oct. 15 for those aged 65 to 69.
Those eligible for vaccination may receive it at a nearby public health center or designated medical institution regardless of their address. Before visiting, they can check with their local public health center or on the Vaccination Helper website whether the institution provides vaccinations.
Yoo Ji-young, director of the Welfare and Health Bureau, said, "Please actively participate in this vaccination campaign while following personal hygiene rules, such as washing your hands and wearing a mask," and added, "If you develop a fever or cough, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility without delay."

[email protected] Kim Gi-seop Reporter