Goheung-gun Implements Free Shingles Vaccination for Residents Aged 65 and Older

Economic Burden Alleviated Through Full Support for Vaccination Costs

[Goheung=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Shim Jeong-woo] Goheung-gun, Jeollanam-do (Governor Gong Young-min) announced that starting from the 2nd of this year, free shingles vaccinations are being provided to seniors aged 65 and older regardless of income.

Until now, shingles vaccinations were not covered by health insurance and cost about 200,000 KRW, which posed a significant financial burden for elderly and low-income residents.

As a campaign pledge of the 8th local government administration, the county revised ordinances last year and made prior preparations to fully cover the vaccination costs, which were previously subsidized at 50%, with county funds. This initiative aims to ensure a healthy old age for seniors by offering free shingles vaccinations to those aged 65 and above.

Shingles is a disease caused by the varicella virus lying dormant in nerve ganglia and reactivating when immunity decreases, resulting in symptoms such as vesicular rash, severe pain, and sensory abnormalities. The incidence rate is reported to be 8 to 10 times higher in people aged 65 and older compared to younger age groups.

The free shingles vaccination is available to seniors aged 65 and above who have been residents of the county for more than one year. Vaccinations can be received at the county health center or local health clinics in towns and townships.

A health center official stated, “By receiving the shingles vaccination, seniors’ immunity will be enhanced, preventing the onset and complications of the disease, which is expected to help ensure a healthy life for the elderly and alleviate their financial burden.”

Goheung=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Shim Jeong-woo hss79@asiae.co.kr