Flu cases hit 25.3 per 1,000 outpatients — 3.8 times higher than a year ago

High-risk groups including elderly, those with underlying conditions urged to take caution

A pediatric clinic in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, is crowded with patients and guardians on Sunday. [Yonhap]
A pediatric clinic in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, is crowded with patients and guardians on Sunday. [Yonhap]

The Korean Medical Association has urged the public to get vaccinated and follow personal hygiene guidelines as COVID-19 and influenza cases rise simultaneously. It said high-risk groups — including the elderly and those with underlying conditions — need to take particular care, as they face a significantly greater risk of developing severe illness if infected.

The KMA's Committee on Infectious Disease Response issued the recommendations in response to the recent concurrent rise in COVID-19 and flu cases.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the influenza-like illness rate at primary care clinics stood at 25.3 per 1,000 outpatients during week 36 of this year (Aug. 30–Sept. 5) — 3.8 times the 6.6 recorded during the same period last year and well above the seasonal epidemic threshold of 12.9. The KDCA issued a flu epidemic alert on Friday.

COVID-19 hospitalizations have also continued to climb. The number of inpatients at hospital-level facilities rose from 15 in week 29 to 193 in week 36, marking seven consecutive weeks of increases.

The KMA said the public should observe basic hygiene practices such as handwashing and cough etiquette. It also recommended wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces and ventilating enclosed areas regularly.

Those eligible for vaccination — including children, pregnant women and the elderly — were urged to get vaccinated on schedule, and anyone experiencing respiratory symptoms such as fever or cough was advised to seek medical attention promptly.

The association said those in high-risk groups, including people aged 65 and older and those with underlying conditions, should be especially vigilant about infection prevention. It said vaccination and adherence to health guidelines are particularly important for this group given their elevated risk of severe illness.

"As concerns from the medical community about the supply and retail distribution of flu vaccines and COVID-19 treatments continue to grow alongside the recent rise in cases, the relevant authorities, including the KDCA, must proactively review the supply and distribution situation," the committee said. "They must do their utmost to ensure stable procurement and supply so that vaccines and treatments can be delivered on time."


kyoung@heraldcorp.com