Jeonnam Province Urges Compliance with Vaccination and Preventive Measures
Jeonnam Province has urged residents to swiftly get vaccinated and adhere to respiratory disease prevention guidelines as the influenza (flu) infection rate in the region significantly exceeds the national average.
According to Jeonnam Province, flu symptoms include sudden fever over 38 degrees, cough, or sore throat, and children may experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Nationwide, the sentinel surveillance of respiratory infections in clinics has shown a rapid increase in the Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) rate, indicating the number of suspected flu cases per 1,000 outpatients was 7.3 in week 49, 13.6 in week 50, 31.3 in week 51, and 73.9 in week 52. In Jeonnam, this rate increased from 5.2 in week 49 to 99.5 in week 52.
The age group of 7-12 years old has the highest number of cases at 147, followed by 139.6 in the 19-49 age group and 116.5 in the 13-18 age group, showing higher occurrence in socially active age groups.
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) has emphasized that the current influenza virus strain is similar to the vaccine strain, thus expecting effective prevention through vaccination.
Since September 20 of last year, Jeonnam Province has vaccinated 409,000 seniors aged 65 and over, and 102,000 children and pregnant women, continuing to encourage vaccination through individual text messages.
Residents can check which local healthcare facilities offer vaccinations via the Vaccination Helper website.
Following an influenza alert issued on December 20 of last year, high-risk groups, including children, pregnant women, those aged 65 and over, immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying conditions, are eligible for antiviral health insurance benefits and should seek prompt medical treatment.
Preventive measures in daily life include washing hands before and after outings, practicing cough etiquette, wearing masks, avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands, and regular indoor ventilation.
Lee Sang-shim, Director of Health and Welfare of Jeonnam Province, stated, “To prevent flu and other respiratory infections, incorporating preventive measures into daily life is crucial, and parents should ensure that their children under 13 receive vaccinations promptly.”