Flu Cases Surge in Gwangju... "Early November Vaccination Urged"

As the number of influenza cases in the Gwangju area is increasing more rapidly than in previous years, Gwangju City has urged citizens to participate in vaccination efforts. This year, the flu season has started about two months earlier than usual, and the spread continues.

A citizen is receiving an influenza vaccination at a medical institution in the Gwangju area. Provided by Gwangju City

According to Gwangju City and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on November 7, the influenza-like illness (ILI) rate for week 43 of this year (October 19-25) was 13.6 cases per 1,000 outpatients, more than three times higher than the same period last year (3.9 cases). Previously, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued an influenza advisory on October 17, as the ILI rate for week 40 (early October) reached 12.1, exceeding the epidemic threshold of 9.1.

Gwangju City explained that it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop after vaccination, making early November the optimal time to get vaccinated, and recommended that citizens receive their shots as soon as possible. On November 7 at Bitgoeul Senior Health Town and on November 10 at Hyoryeong Senior Welfare Town, the city will hold free vaccination promotion campaigns in cooperation with local health centers and the Infectious Disease Management Support Group.

The free influenza vaccination program is available until April 2026 for seniors aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and children between six months and 13 years old. People with disabilities, medical aid recipients, and national merit recipients can receive vaccinations until December 5. Vaccinations are available at 690 designated medical institutions in the Gwangju area, and detailed information can be found on the Immunization Helper website (nip.kdca.go.kr).

Kang Yunseon, Director of Public Health and Medical Services, stated, "This year, the influenza epidemic is progressing faster than usual, so high-risk groups must participate in vaccination." Kang also urged citizens to follow basic infection prevention measures such as indoor ventilation, hand washing, and wearing masks.