Seoul Gangseo-gu, Free Pneumococcal Vaccination for Seniors

COVID-19 Vaccinations for High-Risk Seniors Aged 65 and Over to Continue at Designated Medical Institutions Until December

[Asia Economy Reporter Jong-il Park] Gangseo-gu, Seoul (Mayor Noh Hyun-song) will provide free pneumococcal vaccinations for seniors aged 65 and older until December.

Pneumococcus is a causative bacterium that causes pneumonia, bacteremia, meningitis, and otitis media. For seniors aged 65 and older, infection with pneumococcus can progress to bacteremia and meningitis, with a fatality rate as high as 60-80%, making it extremely deadly.

Especially with the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, concerns for high-risk groups such as the elderly have increased, making pneumococcal vaccination even more essential.

Accordingly, the district has been administering pneumococcal vaccinations to seniors through designated private commissioned medical institutions (hospitals and clinics) since the 22nd, to protect the health of the elderly and prevent severe pneumonia caused by COVID-19.

Seniors aged 65 and older (born on or before December 31, 1955) who have not yet received the pneumococcal vaccination can receive it free of charge at designated commissioned medical institutions by bringing their ID, regardless of their place of residence.

The district has designated 27 medical institutions with good accessibility near subway stations as commissioned medical institutions to carry out the vaccinations. Detailed information can be found on the district office website (News Plaza - Notices & Announcements).

In addition to Gangseo-gu, vaccinations can be received at designated commissioned medical institutions nationwide, and medical institutions offering vaccinations can be checked through the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Vaccination Helper website or mobile app.

Furthermore, for safe vaccination, it is necessary to make a reservation before visiting the medical institution, set a visit time, and wear a mask when visiting at the reserved time.

Mayor Noh Hyun-song said, “Vaccination is the most effective and powerful method to prevent infectious diseases,” and added, “Seniors who have not yet received the pneumococcal vaccination are encouraged to wear masks and visit nearby participating medical institutions to receive the free vaccination.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.