Gwangju Buk-gu, Free Shingles Vaccination for Vulnerable Elderly

On the 18th, Buk-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan City announced that it will launch the 'Free Shingles Vaccination Support Project' for vulnerable elderly starting from the 22nd.

Shingles has a high incidence rate among those aged 50 and older with weakened immunity, so vaccination is recommended. However, the cost of 100,000 to 150,000 KRW at general clinics has made it difficult for vulnerable elderly to get vaccinated.

Accordingly, Buk-gu secured a project budget of 30 million KRW from district funds and, for the first time in Gwangju, will provide free shingles vaccinations to about 380 vulnerable elderly residents.

The vaccination target is elderly recipients of basic livelihood security aged 65 or older residing in Buk-gu, who have no prior history of shingles vaccination.

Vaccinations are only available at the Buk-gu Public Health Center and will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis until the secured vaccines are depleted.

Those wishing to receive the vaccination should make a reservation by phone and visit the Buk-gu Public Health Center on the designated date with their ID and basic livelihood security certificate. For more details, inquiries can be made to the Infectious Disease Control Division of the Buk-gu Public Health Center.

A Buk-gu official said, “We hope this free vaccination project will alleviate the economic burden on vulnerable elderly and help with their health management,” adding, “We will continue to develop and implement various policies so that vulnerable elderly can enjoy a healthy and happy old age.”

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