Jeong Eun-kyung "I Have Hypertension but Received AstraZeneca Vaccine... I Urge the Public to Get Vaccinated"

Blood Clots Are Not a Reason to Stop Vaccination... Flexible Adjustment of Vaccination Intervals

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Seo So-jeong] "I feel apologetic for receiving the COVID-19 vaccination first. I believe it is a good thing if the public can feel more at ease and get vaccinated safely."

On the morning of the 1st, Jung Eun-kyung, Director of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), visited the Heungdeok-gu Public Health Center in Cheongju, Chungbuk, and received the AstraZeneca vaccine along with 10 staff members from the Central Disease Control Headquarters. Born in 1965, Director Jung is 57 years old this year and is not yet eligible for vaccination, but due to recent concerns about the AstraZeneca vaccine, she received the vaccine as a leading example to enhance public trust.

Before the vaccination, Director Jung underwent a preliminary examination and responded to the doctor's question about any discomfort by saying, "I am taking medication for high blood pressure," and added, "It is well controlled." When asked if she was tired, she replied, "I slept a lot yesterday to prepare for the vaccination."

Since the 10th of last month, epidemiologists, rapid response teams, and testing personnel among KDCA staff have been classified as 'COVID-19 primary responders' and have been receiving vaccinations first. Director Jung stated, "Some KDCA staff have taken sick leave after vaccination," and added, "Younger people seem to experience stronger adverse reactions."

Stronger adverse reactions in younger people... Prepare pain relievers and antipyretics and monitor for side effects

[Image source=Yonhap News]

After the preliminary examination, Director Jung moved to the vaccination room and carefully inspected the vaccine refrigerator before the injection. A nurse drew the vaccine directly from the AstraZeneca vial and administered it into her left arm. Immediately after the vaccination, Director Jung held the AstraZeneca vial and said, "This is the first time I have seen the actual vial." The nurse who completed the vaccination advised Director Jung to "wait for 30 minutes" to monitor for any adverse reactions.

When asked about her thoughts on receiving the vaccine, Director Jung said, "I got vaccinated today, and I don't feel much pain now, but I was told that fever or other muscle pain might develop later, so I prepared pain relievers and antipyretics to monitor any side effects."

She continued, "Vaccination not only protects your own health but also the health of your family and colleagues, and it is the best way to overcome COVID-19 and return to normal life. Therefore, I hope the public will get vaccinated when their turn comes."

Director Jung also emphasized, "After vaccination, please rest safely for about 2 to 3 days, stay well hydrated, prepare pain relievers and antipyretics, and monitor for any adverse reactions to ensure a safe vaccination experience."

Regarding concerns about blood clot risks with the AstraZeneca vaccine in those under 55, Director Jung said, "One case has been reported and is under investigation in Korea, and over 800,000 people have been vaccinated since then, but no additional cases have been reported. We will continue to strengthen surveillance of adverse reactions and consult with experts on safety issues." She explained that there is currently no reason to suspend or change the vaccination.

Due to recent international supply instability causing delays in AstraZeneca vaccine imports through COVAX, the plan to extend the vaccination interval from 10 to 12 weeks was addressed. Director Jung said, "Countries maintain vaccination intervals between 8 to 12 weeks, and Korea also plans to flexibly vaccinate within that range."

When asked about the schedule for the second dose, Director Jung replied, "Since the timing of vaccine arrivals and reservations varies, we are coordinating the schedule to administer the second dose within 8 to 12 weeks. We do not plan to vaccinate beyond 12 weeks and will adhere to the approved guidelines."