[Reemergence Prevention Measures③] "Reducing Severity and Mortality"... Expansion of Eligibility for 4th Vaccine Dose

Including Adults Over 50 and Those with Underlying Conditions
Expanded Compensation and Support for Vaccine Adverse Reactions
Preventive Antibody Treatment to Begin in August

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is receiving the fourth COVID-19 booster shot. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-ju] In preparation for the resurgence of COVID-19, health authorities are expanding the target groups for the 4th vaccine dose. Although the existing vaccines have reduced preventive effects against variants, their effectiveness in preventing severe cases remains, so the plan is to lower severe illness and death rates through expanded additional vaccinations.

One of the key measures in the COVID-19 response plan announced by the government on the 13th is the expansion of the 4th dose vaccination targets. The 4th dose, previously given to those aged 60 and above, residents of infection-vulnerable facilities (nursing hospitals, care facilities, mental health promotion facilities), and immunocompromised individuals, will now be extended to those aged 50 and above and individuals aged 18 and above with underlying health conditions. The recommended vaccination group will also be expanded from those aged 80 and above to all eligible for the 4th dose, strengthening encouragement for vaccination among the elderly aged 60 and above.

Regarding the expansion of the 4th dose, health authorities emphasized its effect on preventing severe illness and death rather than infection prevention. The rate of severe cases among unvaccinated confirmed patients is 21.9 times higher than those who completed the 3rd dose and 3.3 times higher than those who completed the basic vaccination (1st and 2nd doses). Additionally, concerning the inclusion of those in their 50s as 4th dose recipients, authorities explained, “Although the fatality rate for people in their 50s is lower than the average, it cannot be considered low compared to those under 40, whose rate is virtually zero. Since people in their 50s are at an age where underlying conditions increase and many have such conditions, it was judged necessary to include them in preparation for the resurgence.” In fact, the United States has included people in their 50s in the 4th dose target group since May 19, and Australia since the 7th of this month. Since the 4th dose focuses on reducing severe illness and fatality rates, additional vaccinations for those under 40 with low fatality rates are not being considered, health authorities added.

However, whether the 4th dose will be actively administered remains uncertain. As of the 11th of this month, the 4th dose vaccination rate among those aged 60 and above is only about 31.8% of the population. Overcoming prolonged epidemic fatigue, distrust in vaccines, and exhaustion is key. Health authorities plan to improve vaccination convenience by supporting reservations and transportation for the elderly and provide accurate information to encourage active vaccination. In particular, they will expand compensation and support for adverse reactions after vaccination. A dedicated organization, the “COVID-19 Vaccination Injury Compensation Support Center,” will be operated for prompt processing of compensation claims. Medical expenses for suspected related diseases will be increased from a maximum of 30 million KRW to 50 million KRW, and death condolence payments will be raised from 50 million KRW to 100 million KRW. Additionally, a condolence payment of 10 million KRW will be newly introduced for cases of undetermined cause of death after autopsy.

Alongside this, for severely immunocompromised individuals who have difficulty forming antibodies through vaccination, such as those with hematologic cancers, organ transplants, or congenital immunodeficiency, the preventive antibody treatment “Evusheld” will be administered. After pre-booking next week and domestic introduction by the end of this month, designated supply to 205 medical institutions is expected in the first week of next month. Actual administration is anticipated to be possible in the second week of next month. Evusheld, approved for emergency use by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, consists of 20,000 doses.