Adults aged 19-49 to start COVID vaccine shots nationwide for free from September this year

Priority Vaccination for Healthcare Workers and Individuals Aged 65 and Over

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Sehee] From the third quarter of this year, general adults aged 19 to 49 will also be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Central Disease Control Headquarters announced on the 12th, "Considering that most vaccines require two doses, adults (19-49 years old) will start vaccination from the third quarter of this year," adding, "This is to promote rapid vaccination and the formation of herd immunity (vaccination of over 70% of the population) as quickly as possible."

The headquarters further explained, "Regarding the vaccination order, timing, and scope, including priority groups for early vaccination, we are currently conducting expert discussions and gathering opinions to carefully review and prepare detailed vaccination plans."

This is the first time a specific vaccination schedule has been announced for healthy adults who are not priority recipients.

The government plans to provide free COVID-19 vaccinations sequentially to the entire population, currently considering healthcare workers, residents and workers of group facilities, those aged 65 and older, and chronic patients aged 19-64 with moderate or higher risk as priority groups.

However, the headquarters stated that since the review is still ongoing, priorities may change depending on the future COVID-19 situation, vaccination goals, and vaccine supply.

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