Surge Among Children Aged 7-12... Hospitalizations Rise 13-Fold Year-on-Year: Why? [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

As temperatures have dropped noticeably in the mornings and evenings, influenza (the flu) is spreading earlier than usual this year. With the number of patients rising rapidly, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has issued an influenza epidemic advisory for the 2026-2027 season. Experts advise that vaccination and personal hygiene measures should be taken promptly in preparation for the upcoming autumn and winter flu season.

According to the KDCA on September 12, in the 36th week of this year (August 30 to September 5), the number of suspected influenza cases at outpatient clinics per 1,000 patients was 25.3, nearly double the season’s epidemic threshold of 12.9. The number jumped from 7.5 in the 33rd week, to 9.2 in the 34th week, 13.3 in the 35th week, and then surged again by about 90% in just one week. Compared to the same period last year, which was 6.6, this is approximately 3.8 times higher.

The spread is particularly pronounced among children. During the 36th week, the number of suspected cases per 1,000 by age group was highest at 75.1 among those aged 7 to 12, followed by 49.8 for those aged 1 to 6, and 31.3 for those aged 13 to 18. As group activities have increased after the new school term began—including at schools, daycare centers, and private academies—particular caution is needed regarding the spread among children and adolescents. Hospitalizations at medical institutions during the 36th week reached 300, about double the previous week's total of 166. Compared to 23 during the same period last year, this is roughly 13 times higher.

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If you suddenly develop a high fever or muscle aches, suspect the flu

While influenza is often mistaken for a severe cold, the symptoms are different. Whereas a common cold usually begins gradually with symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose and sore throat, influenza often presents suddenly with fever above 38 degrees Celsius, chills, headache, muscle aches, and severe fatigue. In children, digestive symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea can occur along with fever and cough. Complications such as otitis media, croup, or bronchitis may also arise. Children under the age of five—especially those under two—are at higher risk for complications.

Professor Yoon Yunseon of the Department of Pediatrics at Korea University Guro Hospital said, "In infants and young children, influenza can present with a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and rash, in addition to cough, unlike in adults. The younger the child, the higher the risk of complications, so close attention is necessary," adding, "If a high fever persists, urine output is reduced, the child seems more lethargic or eats less than usual, and especially if breathing becomes labored, it is best not to dismiss it as a simple cold and instead seek medical care."

In older adults, infection may manifest not through obvious high fever, but rather as a marked loss of appetite or pronounced fatigue. The risk of developing pneumonia or aggravation of existing cardiac or pulmonary disease is also relatively high among infants, pregnant women, older adults, and patients with chronic conditions. Professor Nam Elriel of the Department of Infectious Diseases at Korea University Guro Hospital stated, "In older adults, infants, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases, complications such as bacterial pneumonia or worsening of underlying cardiopulmonary disorders can develop. If high fever persists, or if respiratory distress or severe fatigue occurs, it is important to seek medical attention immediately."

Vaccination, handwashing, and ventilation are also crucial

The most important way to prevent influenza is to get vaccinated every year. Because the influenza virus is constantly mutating, it is recommended to be vaccinated again even if you were previously vaccinated or had the flu last year. Vaccination not only lowers the risk of infection, but also helps reduce the likelihood of hospitalization and severe complications.

The KDCA will implement the 2026-2027 national influenza vaccination program for each eligible group sequentially starting from the 21st of this month. This year, the eligible age for free vaccination for children has been expanded from 6 months to 13 years to 6 months to 14 years old.

Personal preventive measures should also be practiced daily. After coming home, hands should be thoroughly washed with soap, and when coughing or sneezing, one should cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow of their sleeve. Wearing masks in crowded places and ventilating indoor spaces frequently is also helpful. If you develop symptoms such as fever or cough, it is better to rest and seek medical care rather than forcing yourself to go to school or work.

Professor Nam commented, "Since indicators are rising earlier than usual this year, it is important to protect yourself through handwashing and mask-wearing, and to get vaccinated at the recommended time once the vaccination program begins."

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