Imsil County Offers Free Pneumococcal Vaccinations for Seniors Aged 65 and Over

Vaccinations Available at Public Health Centers and Designated Medical Institutions Nationwide

Imsil County in North Jeolla Province announced on the 12th that it will provide free pneumococcal vaccinations for residents aged 65 and older.

This year's eligible recipients are residents born on or before December 31, 1960 (regardless of exact birth date), who have not received the pneumococcal (23-valent polysaccharide vaccine, PPSV23) vaccination after turning 65.

Free Pneumococcal Vaccination for Seniors Poster. Provided by Imsil County

If you received the pneumococcal vaccine at your own expense before turning 65, you should consult with a doctor about whether an additional vaccination is needed.

Pneumonia is a disease caused by bacteria or viruses invading the lungs and causing inflammation. Most cases are bacterial pneumonia caused by pneumococcus, and patients with influenza or colds are more susceptible to bacterial pneumonia.

Since lung function and immunity decline with age, pneumonia in the elderly often leads to severe illness, making pneumococcal vaccination especially important.

Vaccinations are available at public health centers and designated medical institutions nationwide, but it is recommended to check with the institution in advance to confirm vaccine availability. Information about designated medical institutions and their locations can be found on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's Vaccination Helper website.

Kim Daegon, Director of the Public Health Center, said, "Pneumonia can be fatal for high-risk groups such as seniors aged 65 and older, so please make sure to get your pneumococcal vaccination without delay."

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