New Flu Epidemic Alert Issued: "Unusual Outbreak Lasting Over One Year"

Last Year's Epidemic Alert Remained Active Without Cancellation
First Since System Establishment in 2000
"Children and Pregnant Women Must Actively Get Vaccinated"

For the first time since the establishment of the national influenza sentinel surveillance system in 2000, a flu warning for the next season has been issued without lifting the previous warning. On the 14th, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) announced, "Due to the continued flu outbreak this year, the 2023-2024 season flu warning will be issued without lifting the warning issued on September 16, 2022." This is due to an unusually prolonged flu outbreak.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Accordingly, starting from the 15th, a nationwide influenza (flu) warning will be newly issued. The flu warning system is an alert mechanism designed to notify in advance of an outbreak to enable proactive preventive measures. If the flu incidence exceeds the seasonal threshold from September to August of the following year, the warning is immediately issued after expert consultation. Ji Young-mi, head of the KDCA, stated, "During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was no influenza outbreak, leading to decreased natural immunity within the community." She added, "Increased face-to-face activities after easing of quarantine measures, relaxed vigilance regarding personal hygiene rules, and insufficient ventilation are also factors contributing to the prolonged flu outbreak."

This year’s national influenza vaccination will begin on the 20th. Children who require two doses (aged 6 months to under 9 years old receiving the flu vaccine for the first time) will start vaccination first. From the 5th of next month, children requiring one dose and pregnant women will begin vaccination, followed by the elderly starting from the 11th of next month. The KDCA emphasized that in addition to vaccination, practicing preventive measures such as washing hands before and after going out, observing proper cough etiquette, and wearing masks when respiratory symptoms occur is also important.

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