The Dongducheon City Public Health Center in Gyeonggi announced on the 6th that it will provide a one-time free pneumococcal vaccination for seniors aged 65 and older (born on or before December 31, 1960) for life.

A view of Dongducheon City Hall. Provided by Dongducheon City.

The 23-valent polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine, unlike the annual influenza vaccine, can reduce the risk of pneumonia and complications such as sepsis and meningitis with just one dose.

If you received the 13-valent vaccine before turning 65, you can get the vaccination one year after the date of the previous vaccination. If you received the 23-valent vaccine paid for before turning 65, you must wait five years from the date of vaccination before getting the vaccine.

The pneumococcal vaccine can be received free of charge at public health centers or designated medical institutions regardless of your place of residence. You can check the availability of vaccination at medical institutions on the Dongducheon City Public Health Center website and the Vaccination Helper site.

For other inquiries related to vaccination, please contact the Vaccination Office at the Dongducheon City Public Health Center.