Gangnam-gu Offers Free Pneumococcal Vaccination for Seniors Aged 65 and Over

Partial Suspension of Public Health Center Services Due to COVID-19... Expansion to 128 Private Hospitals and Clinics, Expecting Prevention Effect for Severe Pneumonia

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Gangnam-gu (District Mayor Jeong Soon-gyun) has been providing free pneumococcal (PPSV23) vaccinations for seniors aged 65 and older, which were previously administered only at public health centers, at 128 private hospitals and clinics in the area since June.

The district allowed designated private hospitals and clinics to offer free pneumococcal vaccinations starting this year, as public health centers, which were responsible for COVID-19 testing, temporarily suspended or reduced their usual services such as vaccinations.

The target group for the pneumococcal vaccination support includes those aged 65 or older (born on or before December 31, 1955) who have never been vaccinated before. They can receive the free vaccination at designated medical institutions regardless of their place of residence by simply bringing an ID card.

Hospitals and clinics can be checked on the ‘Vaccination Helper’ website.

Pneumonia, which ranked 9th among causes of death in Korea in 2009, rose to 3rd place last year and continues to show an increasing trend, causing complications such as lung abscesses.

By expanding vaccinations to private hospitals and clinics, the district expects to improve vaccine accessibility, thereby enhancing the health safety of the elderly and preventing severe pneumonia caused by COVID-19.

Yang O-seung, head of the Gangnam-gu Public Health Center, said, “Although these are difficult times due to COVID-19, please practice personal hygiene rules such as social distancing and wearing masks to have a healthy winter, and complete your vaccinations on time for the health of yourself, others, and all of us.”

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