Jangseong County Expands Shingles Vaccination Support to Residents Aged 60 and Over

Up to KRW 100,000 per Person Supported Until Year-End
Vaccinations Available at 13 Local Medical Institutions

Jangseong County announced on July 30 that it will significantly expand its support program for shingles vaccination.

Starting from August 3 until the end of this year, the county will provide subsidies of up to KRW 100,000 per person for shingles vaccinations at 13 designated and entrusted medical institutions in the area.

Jangseong County will expand the eligibility for shingles vaccination support to age 60 and above starting in August. Provided by Jangseong County

The eligibility criteria require residents to have been registered in Jangseong County for more than six months as of the vaccination date; those eligible must be 60 years old or older, born on or before December 31, 1966.

Previously, shingles vaccination support in Jangseong County was limited to residents aged 65 and above. However, from August, the age requirement will be expanded to include those aged 60 and older. Residents who have already received vaccination support for shingles are not eligible for another subsidy.

Another change is that applicants can now choose between the 'live vaccine' and the 'inactivated vaccine.' The live vaccine, which generates immunity by injecting a weakened version of the pathogen, requires only a single dose, with preventive effects lasting five to eight years. Residents pay a personal share of KRW 20,000 after subsidies, keeping the out-of-pocket cost relatively low. However, individuals with weakened immune systems are advised to consult a physician before receiving this vaccine.

The inactivated vaccine, produced using recombinant DNA technology, can be safely administered to individuals with low immunity and is known to provide protective effects for more than 10 years. It also helps reduce the severity of neuralgia experienced during shingles outbreaks. Recipients must receive two doses two to six months apart, with a total personal cost of KRW 320,000.

Residents wishing to get vaccinated should first confirm vaccine availability and clinic schedules with the medical institution before visiting. For those aged 65 or older who are basic livelihood security recipients, lower-income residents, or have a severe or higher-level disability, vaccination is supported at the public health center. For more information, contact the Jangseong County Public Health Center immunization office (0631-390-8332, 8337).

Kim Hanjong, Governor of Jangseong County, said, "We have expanded the eligibility to those aged 60 and over in response to the recent trend of shingles occurring at younger ages," adding, "We will continue to consistently provide support for the health of our residents."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.