Namwon City Expands "Shingles Vaccination" to Those Aged 60 and Older

The Namwon City Public Health Center in North Jeolla Province has expanded the eligibility for shingles vaccination from those aged 65 and older to those aged 60 and older, starting this year.

According to the public health center on May 22, this vaccination initiative was launched to alleviate the financial burden on citizens. The support is available to low-income residents aged 60 and older who are registered as Namwon City residents, as well as all citizens aged 60 and older.

2025 Namwon City Shingles Vaccination Poster. Provided by Namwon City Public Health Center

The supported vaccines include the live vaccine (Zostavax, single dose) and the inactivated vaccine (Shingrix, two doses).

Low-income individuals aged 60 and older can choose between the live and inactivated vaccines. The live vaccine is provided free of charge, while 70% of the cost of the inactivated vaccine is subsidized (53,000 KRW per dose, for a total of two doses). For other citizens aged 60 and older, there is a copayment equivalent to the vaccine cost, and only the inactivated vaccine is available (178,000 KRW per dose, for a total of two doses).

Vaccinations are available at local public health centers (health sub-centers and health clinics). Those wishing to receive the vaccination should bring their ID and visit the relevant institution.

Han Yongjae, Director of the Namwon City Public Health Center, stated, "Shingles is a disease accompanied by rashes, blisters, and pain, and it mainly occurs in the elderly with weakened immunity. We hope that vaccination will help reduce the risk of developing the disease and aid in alleviating symptoms and recovery."