Gapyeong County Recommends Completing Flu Vaccinations by End of October Ahead of Influenza Season

Gapyeong County: "Early Vaccination Is Crucial for Immunity"

Gapyeong County in Gyeonggi Province has advised its residents to complete their flu vaccinations by October 31 in preparation for the seasonal influenza outbreak. Although free vaccinations for county residents are available until April 30 next year, early vaccination is emphasized as crucial for building immunity.

Gapyeong County, Advisory Notice for Intensive Flu Vaccination until October 31. Provided by Gapyeong County

The county is actively recommending preventive vaccination and adherence to personal hygiene guidelines to curb the spread of respiratory infectious diseases, following the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's issuance of the "2025-2026 Influenza Epidemic Advisory" on October 17.

Influenza is transmitted through respiratory secretions such as coughs or nasal discharge and is accompanied by high fever, sore throat, and muscle aches. Early vaccination is especially important for high-risk groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses, as they face a higher risk of complications such as pneumonia.

An official from the county public health center stated, "It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop after receiving the flu vaccine," and emphasized, "To prepare for the full-scale influenza outbreak expected after November, it is most effective to complete vaccination by the end of this month."

Gapyeong County began offering free flu vaccinations on September 22. Since October 15, it has also been administering COVID-19 vaccinations to seniors aged 65 and older, as well as to immunocompromised individuals. Vaccinations are available at the Gapyeong County Public Health Center, health sub-centers, health clinics, and designated medical institutions. At health sub-centers, vaccinations are only available on designated clinic days.

A public health center official commented, "Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are the most effective means of preventing the spread of respiratory infectious diseases," and added, "We hope all residents will complete their vaccinations during this intensive period and prepare for a healthy winter."