Pohang City Expands 4th COVID-19 Vaccination to People in Their 50s to Prevent Reemergence

Pohang City Hall.

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Dongguk Lee] Pohang City, Gyeongbuk Province, is expanding the 4th COVID-19 vaccination due to the expected resurgence caused by the recent increase in reinfection cases, the rise in the infection reproduction number, and the dominance of highly transmissible new variants (BA.4, BA.5).

This expansion targets high-risk groups who may face increased risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19, including those aged 50 and above (born before 1972) with a high prevalence of underlying conditions, high-risk individuals aged 18-49 with underlying conditions (chronic lung, heart, liver diseases, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, etc.), immunocompromised persons (undergoing chemotherapy, taking immunosuppressants, etc.), and residents and workers in vulnerable facilities such as facilities for the disabled and homeless shelters.

Vaccinations will be administered at designated medical institutions using mRNA vaccines or Novavax vaccines. Pre-registration begins on the 18th, with vaccinations starting from August 1. Additionally, same-day vaccinations at designated medical institutions will be available starting July 18.

A representative from the Nam-gu Public Health Center in Pohang said, “The most effective way to prepare for the summer resurgence of COVID-19 and to prevent severe illness and death among high-risk groups is vaccination. We strongly encourage eligible individuals to get vaccinated, and also recommend vaccination for citizens who have not completed their 3rd dose to protect high-risk groups.”