Gyeonggi Province Recommends Simultaneous Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccinations for Those Aged 65 and Over

The Gyeonggi Provincial Government has recommended timely and early influenza vaccinations for each age group, as influenza cases are rapidly increasing within the province. In particular, the provincial government urged that seniors aged 65 and above should receive both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same time.

According to statistics from the Disease Control Integrated Information System, the ratio of suspected influenza cases (patients with suspected but unconfirmed influenza) per 1,000 outpatients in the province rose from 24.2 in week 36 (August 30–September 5) to 32.1 in week 39 (September 20–26), marking an increase of approximately 1.3 times over the past four weeks.

Influenza vaccinations for children (6 months to 14 years old) and pregnant women have been in progress since September 21. For children under 9 who are first-time vaccine recipients or have received fewer than two cumulative doses, it is important for guardians to check the vaccination history to ensure two doses are completed during this season.

Gyeonggi Provincial Government

For seniors, the vaccination schedule will be moved up accordingly: those aged 75 and above will start on October 6, those aged 70–74 on October 12, and those aged 65–69 on October 15. Additionally, COVID-19 vaccinations for those aged 70 and above will start on October 12, and for those aged 65–69 on October 15.

However, seniors eligible for influenza vaccination during this period may receive both the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines simultaneously if recommended by the attending physician during their medical visit.

Vaccinations are available at designated healthcare facilities and public health centers nationwide regardless of the address of residence (advance confirmation is required before visiting). The nearest designated healthcare facilities can be found on the Vaccination Helper website (nip.kdca.go.kr).

Yu Youngcheol, director of the Health and Wellness Bureau of the Gyeonggi Provincial Government, stated, "As influenza is spreading early this year, we have initiated vaccinations ahead of schedule and strongly encourage everyone to get vaccinated according to their designated schedule."

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