Gwangjin-gu Offers Free Pneumococcal 23-Valent Vaccination for Seniors Aged 65 and Over

Effective Infection Prevention with a Single Lifetime Vaccination
Available at 136 Designated Medical Institutions in Gwangjin-gu

Gwangjin-gu (District Mayor Kim Kyung-ho) is providing free pneumococcal vaccinations for seniors aged 65 and older.

Pneumococcus is one of the main causative bacteria of invasive infections such as pneumonia with bacteremia and meningitis. The mortality rate reaches 60% for bacteremia and 80% for meningitis, making it potentially fatal for the elderly with weakened immune systems.

This invasive pneumococcal disease can be effectively prevented with a single vaccine dose.

Accordingly, the district supports free pneumococcal 23-valent vaccinations year-round. This is targeted at seniors aged 65 (born on or before December 31, 1960) who have never received the pneumococcal 23-valent vaccine. If vaccinated before age 65, an additional dose can be given once 5 years after the vaccination date.

Eligible individuals wishing to receive the vaccine should bring their ID and visit one of the 136 designated medical institutions in the area. Detailed information can be found on the Gwangjin-gu Public Health Center website or the Vaccination Helper site.

Kim Kyung-ho, Mayor of Gwangjin-gu, said, “Respiratory infectious diseases such as influenza, COVID-19, and pneumonia continue to spread, and the number of respiratory patients is increasing,” adding, “We urge active participation in the pneumococcal vaccination program conducted by the district for the health of our seniors.”