Gwangyang City Offers Free Influenza Vaccinations

For Children, Pregnant Women, and Citizens Aged 50 and Older

Gwangyang City in South Jeolla Province announced on September 22 that it will provide free influenza (flu) vaccinations for the 2025-2026 season until April 30 of next year.

The vaccinations, which began today, are offered free of charge to children aged 6 months to 13 years, pregnant women, seniors aged 65 and older who are eligible for the national immunization program, as well as Gwangyang City residents aged 50 to 64 who are eligible for city support.

Exterior view of Gwangyang City Hall.

For children, priority is given from September 22 to those who require two doses. This includes children with no previous vaccination history or those who have only received one dose previously. Children who only require a single dose can receive their vaccination starting September 29.

Vaccinations for seniors will be administered sequentially by age group, beginning with those aged 75 and older on October 15. Seniors aged 65 and older are considered high-risk for both influenza and COVID-19, and simultaneous vaccination with both vaccines is recommended.

Vaccinations are available at designated medical institutions. Nearby institutions can be found on the Gwangyang City website or the Immunization Helper website. In rural areas with limited medical access, vaccinations will be provided at six local health centers to improve convenience for seniors. However, it is essential to check the available vaccination dates before visiting a health center.

Recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security Program aged 50 to 64 can receive their vaccinations at the Gwangyang City Public Health Center (Eup) and the Jungma Integrated Health Center. When visiting a vaccination center, all recipients must bring identification. Pregnant women are required to provide documents such as a maternity handbook or a pregnancy confirmation certificate. Citizens aged 50 to 64 must bring a resident registration certificate issued on the day of vaccination to prove their Gwangyang City address.

Park Yangsook, Head of the Health Administration Division, stated, "Influenza vaccination is an effective way to reduce hospitalizations, deaths, and the overall burden of disease." She urged, "Please make sure to get vaccinated to protect your health in preparation for this winter's flu season."