Jeonju City Offers Free Vaccinations for COVID-19, Pneumonia, and More

Targeting High-Risk Groups Including Elderly, Pregnant Women, and Children

The Jeonju City Public Health Center in Jeollabuk-do is conducting free vaccinations against influenza (flu), COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease for high-risk groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and children in preparation for the winter respiratory infection season.

Jeonju City Hall exterior. Provided by Jeonju City.

According to the health center on the 11th, influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations will be available until April 30 of next year. Considering the epidemic period (November to April) and the antibody formation period (about two weeks), it is most effective to get vaccinated between October and December.

Regarding the infection prevention effectiveness of the vaccines, influenza is known to be about 70-90%, COVID-19 about 60-70%, and pneumococcal disease about 50-80%. These rates may vary depending on individual immunity and the match between the vaccine and the circulating virus.

However, vaccines play an important role not only in preventing infection but also in reducing complications leading to severe illness and death. Therefore, it is highly recommended that high-risk groups such as the elderly, children, and pregnant women receive vaccinations.

Influenza vaccination is provided free of charge for seniors aged 65 and older, children aged 6 months to 13 years, and pregnant women. Free COVID-19 vaccination is offered to high-risk groups including seniors aged 65 and older, immunocompromised individuals aged 6 months and above, members of infection-vulnerable facilities, and healthcare workers.

Pneumococcal vaccination is free for seniors aged 65 and older and children aged 2 to 59 months. Vaccinations can be received by visiting nearby clinics or hospitals with an ID card, and free vaccinations are available nationwide.

Nationally, including 340 designated medical institutions in the Jeonju area, designated medical institutions can be checked on the Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Vaccination Helper website.

Kim Sinseon, director of the Jeonju City Public Health Center, stated, “It is very important to establish herd immunity through vaccination and prevent the spread of epidemics in preparation for the winter infectious disease season,” and added, “We ask for active interest and participation in vaccination for the health and safety of our citizens.”