KDCA issued a flu epidemic alert Sept. 11 as cases rise 3.8 times faster than last year; free shots for children expanded to age 14 and under, starting Monday; seniors 65 and older to receive vaccinations on a staggered schedule from Oct. 6 at 187 designated clinics
Mapo-gu will offer free influenza vaccinations to children, pregnant women and senior citizens from Monday through April 30, 2027, as the district prepares for a winter flu season.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a flu epidemic alert Sept. 11 after the virus spread unusually fast compared with previous years, underscoring the urgency of vaccination to contain further transmission.
Vaccinations for children begin Monday. Starting this season, the eligible age range for free shots has been expanded from children aged 6 months to 13 to those aged 6 months to 14.
Children between 6 months and 8 years old who are receiving their first flu shot or have an incomplete vaccination history must receive two doses four weeks apart. Children aged 9 to 14, and those between 6 months and 8 years who have previously completed two or more doses, need only one shot.
Pregnant women may also begin receiving vaccinations Monday. They must bring documentation confirming their pregnancy, such as a maternal health record or a certificate of pregnancy.
Seniors 65 and older will be vaccinated on a staggered schedule by age group. Those 75 and older (born before 1951) may receive shots from Oct. 6; those aged 70 to 74 (born 1952–1956) from Oct. 12; and those aged 65 to 69 (born 1957–1961) from Oct. 15. Seniors 65 and older may also receive a COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit.
Those eligible for the national vaccination program may receive their shots at any designated medical institution nationwide, regardless of their registered address, by presenting an ID and any required supporting documents. Mapo-gu has 187 contracted clinics.
Alongside this, the district will provide free vaccinations from Oct. 15 through Nov. 30 for Mapo-gu residents aged 15 to 64 who receive basic livelihood or medical benefits, have a severe disability, or are national merit recipients. Eligible residents should visit a designated local clinic with their ID and supporting documents.
Details on contracted clinics and other information are available on the Vaccination Assistance website or the Mapo-gu Public Health Center website.
"Flu vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of infection and severe illness, so I urge everyone in the eligible groups to check their vaccination schedule and get their shots without delay," Mapo-gu District Mayor Yoo Dong-gyun said. "Particularly as the free vaccination program has been expanded to children 14 and under starting this year, I ask parents to check when their children are due and make sure they are vaccinated on time."
seouldream01@heraldcorp.com
