Flu Hits Hardest Among Ages 7–12... Hospitalizations Surge 13-Fold From Last Year [Kok! Health]

25.3 Suspected Cases per 1,000 in Week 36... Up 90% from Previous Week
Highest Incidence Among Ages 7–12... Extra Caution Urged as School Starts
Vaccinations Begin September 21... Handwashing and Ventilation Are Key

With temperatures dropping noticeably in the mornings and evenings, influenza (the flu) is spreading earlier than usual this year. As the number of patients rises rapidly, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has issued an influenza advisory for the 2026–2027 season. Experts advise that people should promptly prepare for the upcoming autumn and winter flu season, through vaccination and personal hygiene measures.

According to the KDCA on September 12, during week 36 of this year (August 30 to September 5), the number of suspected influenza cases per 1,000 outpatients at clinics was 25.3, which is about twice the seasonal epidemic threshold of 12.9. This figure surged from 7.5 in week 33 to 9.2 in week 34 and 13.3 in week 35, then jumped by around 90 percent in just one week. Compared to the same period last year, when there were 6.6 cases, this is approximately 3.8 times higher.

The increase is especially pronounced among children. During week 36, the number of suspected influenza patients per 1,000 people by age was highest among those aged 7–12 at 75.1, followed by those aged 1–6 at 49.8, and those aged 13–18 at 31.3. Since the start of the new school term has led to more group activities in schools, daycare centers, and academies, extra caution is needed regarding the spread among children and adolescents. In week 36, the number of inpatients at hospitals reached 300—nearly double the figure from the previous week (166). This is about 13 times higher than the same period last year, when there were 23 inpatients.

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Suspect Influenza if You Suddenly Have High Fever and Muscle Aches

Influenza is often mistaken for a severe cold, but the symptoms are different. While the common cold often begins gradually with a runny or stuffy nose and sore throat, influenza usually presents with sudden onset of high fever (above 38 degrees Celsius), chills, headache, muscle pain, and severe fatigue. Children may exhibit not only fever and cough, but also gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Complications such as otitis media, croup, or bronchitis may also develop. Infants and toddlers under five years old—particularly those under two—are at higher risk for complications.

Professor Youn Yunseon, Department of Pediatrics at Korea University Guro Hospital, said, "Unlike adults, young children may experience a variety of symptoms when they contract influenza, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and rash in addition to coughing. The younger the child, the higher the risk of complications, so special attention is needed. If a high fever persists, urine output decreases, the child is more lethargic or eats less than usual, or if breathing seems difficult, do not dismiss it as just a cold—seek medical attention."

Among the elderly, infection may not present with a high fever, but rather with symptoms such as loss of appetite or extreme fatigue. Infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses are at relatively higher risk of developing pneumonia or experiencing worsening of existing heart and lung diseases. Professor Nam Eliel, Infectious Diseases Division at Korea University Guro Hospital, said, "In the elderly, infants, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases, complications such as bacterial pneumonia may occur, or their existing cardiopulmonary conditions may worsen. Especially if a high fever persists, or symptoms like breathing difficulties and severe fatigue appear, it is essential to seek medical care immediately."

Vaccination, Handwashing, and Ventilation Are All Important

The most effective way to prevent influenza is to get vaccinated annually. Because the influenza virus continually evolves, it is recommended to get vaccinated each year, even if you were vaccinated or had the flu last year. Vaccination not only reduces the risk of infection but also helps lower the risk of hospitalization and serious complications.

The KDCA will begin phased national influenza vaccinations by group from September 21 for the 2026–2027 season. This year, eligible children have been expanded from those aged six months to 13 years to those aged six months to 14 years.

Preventive measures in daily life should also be followed. After coming home, thoroughly wash your hands with soap, and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Wearing a mask in crowded places and ventilating indoor areas frequently is also helpful. If you experience symptoms such as fever and cough, it is advisable to rest and seek medical treatment rather than forcing yourself to attend school or go to work.

Professor Nam said, "Since key indicators are rising earlier this year than in previous years, it is important to protect yourself by washing your hands and wearing a mask, and to get vaccinated at the recommended time once the vaccination program starts."

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