407 Vaccinated Individuals Exposed to Room Temperature... 83 More in One Day (Comprehensive)

KDCA "No Reports of Adverse Reactions"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cha Min-young] As of the 27th, it has been confirmed that 407 people have received influenza (flu) vaccines suspected of being exposed to room temperature. This is an increase of 83 people from 324 the previous day.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) released a reference document on the day, stating, "As of today, a total of 407 cases have been reported of those vaccinated with government-procured doses under investigation," and added, "Currently, there are no reports of adverse reactions, and monitoring of adverse reactions is ongoing."

They continued, "The number of people vaccinated before and after the suspension announcement on the 22nd is currently being tallied."

The problematic vaccine is 5.78 million doses (single-dose units) supplied to the government by Shinseong Pharmaceutical. Although the KDCA decided to abruptly suspend the government’s vaccination program on the night of the 21st after identifying the room temperature exposure incident, some hospitals that either did not recognize this fact in time or managed the vaccine carelessly administered the vaccine to hundreds of people, according to investigations.

Meanwhile, the KDCA has strengthened monitoring of those vaccinated with the affected vaccine. Regarding surveillance of adverse reactions in vaccine recipients, local governments have been instructed to conduct intensive monitoring via phone calls or text messages for one week from the vaccination date. The KDCA is also confirming vaccination status and the occurrence of adverse reactions daily by phone with local governments.