During the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, individuals over the age of 65 and children are advised to receive the influenza vaccine. There has been a significant increase in suspected influenza cases across the country, with a 35% rise compared to the previous week. The public is urged to adhere to respiratory infection prevention measures, including wearing masks.
The recent surge in influenza cases has reached the highest level in the past six years, prompting Gyeonggi Province to recommend mask-wearing in public places. On January 10, officials in Gyeonggi Province held a meeting with the heads of health centers across 31 cities and counties, recommending mask-wearing in crowded places due to the rise in influenza cases.
In addition, it is strongly advised to receive both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines before the holiday. Reports from the disease control authorities indicate that the number of suspected influenza cases has risen to 99.8 per 1,000 people, up from 73.9 the previous week, marking the highest figure in the past six years.
The influenza vaccination for the 2024-2025 season is being offered for free to high-risk groups, including individuals aged 65 and older, pregnant women, and children aged 6 months to 13 years. Similarly, COVID-19 vaccinations are being provided to high-risk populations for free, targeting those aged 65 and older, individuals in vulnerable facilities, and those with weakened immune systems. The national vaccination program is available until April 30, and eligible individuals who have not yet been vaccinated can receive their shots at any designated medical institution nationwide, regardless of their residence.
To address the increased waiting times in emergency medical centers at major hospitals due to the surge in suspected influenza cases, Gyeonggi Province is actively operating six medical centers, 23 fever clinics, and 30 “moonlight children’s hospitals” that offer services at night on weekdays and during weekends and holidays.
Yoo Young-cheol, head of the Health and Welfare Bureau, stated that “with increased travel and group activities anticipated during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, a rise in influenza and COVID-19 infections is expected. We request that people receive their vaccines before the holiday and make mask-wearing a regular practice to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.”