Flu Outbreak Alert Issued After 3 Years... 'Autumn Epidemic' After 12 Years

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has issued an influenza (flu) epidemic advisory for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The KDCA announced on the 16th that from the 4th to the 10th of this month, the proportion of influenza-like illness (patients showing suspected symptoms) was 5.1 per 1,000 people, exceeding the epidemic threshold of 4.9 per 1,000, prompting the issuance of the influenza epidemic advisory.

This is the first time in three years since 2019, before the COVID-19 outbreak, that an influenza epidemic advisory has been issued. Typically, influenza epidemic advisories are issued between December and January, but issuing an advisory in the fall months of September to October is the first time in 12 years since October 2010.

Due to COVID-19 measures such as mask-wearing and regular handwashing, influenza outbreaks did not occur in the past two years; however, influenza viruses have been continuously detected since this summer.

Accordingly, the KDCA considers it highly likely that COVID-19 and influenza will circulate simultaneously this year and has applied a more sensitive influenza epidemic threshold of 4.9 per 1,000 people, compared to last season’s 5.8 per 1,000.

However, among 215 respiratory specimens collected from 77 primary care institutions during the first week of surveillance from the 4th to the 10th, the influenza virus detection rate was 3 cases (1.4%), which is lower than that of other respiratory viruses. Detection rates for other respiratory viruses were: metapneumovirus 20.9%, respiratory syncytial virus 16.7%, rhinovirus 7.4%, bocavirus 7.0%, and adenovirus 5.6%.

With the issuance of the epidemic advisory, high-risk groups including children aged 9 and under (including newborns over 2 weeks old), pregnant women, those aged 65 and older, and immunocompromised individuals can receive antiviral treatment coverage based on symptoms alone without influenza testing. For those not in high-risk groups, antiviral treatment coverage applies only if testing confirms a positive diagnosis.

The KDCA has requested enhanced influenza prevention management in group facilities such as infant care centers, schools, and nursing homes during the epidemic period. They also recommend that anyone exhibiting suspected influenza symptoms such as a fever of 38℃ or higher with cough or sore throat seek prompt medical attention at nearby healthcare facilities.

The agency also urged those eligible for the national influenza vaccination program starting on the 21st to actively participate in vaccination according to their age-specific schedule. In particular, pregnant women and children aged 6 months to 13 years, who are at higher risk of complications, are encouraged to complete their vaccinations as early as possible within the designated schedule.

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