Jung Eun-kyung: "Goal to Achieve Herd Immunity by November... Priority Vaccination for Healthcare Workers and Elderly"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] Jung Eun-kyung, Commissioner of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, stated on the 8th that the target date for achieving herd immunity against the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) is November.

Commissioner Jung attended an emergency inquiry on COVID-19 held at the National Assembly that day and said, "Herd immunity is considered to be formed when 60-70% of the population acquires immunity," adding, "The goal is to establish herd immunity by November." She also added, "Unlike influenza vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine requires two doses. It will take some time to complete the two-dose vaccination."

She said, "Some countries have started initial vaccinations, but there will be differences by country regarding when large-scale vaccinations can be conducted," and added, "I understand that other countries also predict herd immunity formation in the third to fourth quarters." She continued, "I believe all other countries face challenges in achieving herd immunity."

Commissioner Jung explained that to secure herd immunity, ▲ vaccine procurement ▲ smooth operation of the vaccination system ▲ and public acceptance are all important. She stated, "The vaccine supply has been secured, and we are preparing to ensure that many people can be safely vaccinated in a short period by making a good vaccination plan," but added, "However, how much the public accepts and cooperates is a crucial factor."

She identified healthcare workers and elderly seniors as the highest priority groups for vaccination. Commissioner Jung said, "The first goal is to prevent the collapse of the medical system and reduce the mortality rate." She added, "The second goal is to secure herd immunity," and explained, "By setting priorities, vaccination will be expanded first to elderly seniors and chronic disease patients, progressing to the stage of expanding immunity to 60-70%."

Commissioner Jung said, "It will be difficult for the public to choose the type of vaccine to be administered," and added, "The vaccination priority and schedule will be determined through expert review to best match the characteristics of the vaccines and the target recipients by period."

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