Jeonbuk Province Faces Influenza Outbreak... "Urges Vaccination and Precautionary Measures"

Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province has urged residents to strictly follow respiratory infection prevention guidelines and for high-risk groups to promptly complete their vaccinations, as the recent influenza (flu) outbreak has spread to its largest scale since 2016.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, as of the 52nd week of 2024 (December 22-28), 73.9 out of every 1,000 outpatients were reported as suspected influenza cases.

Jeonbuk Provincial Government Building. Provided by Jeonbuk Province

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This is the highest figure since 2016, when it was 86.2, and represents a significant increase compared to the recent annual peaks of 61.3 in 2023 and 60.7 in 2022. In particular, the 13-18 age group showed a high incidence rate of 151.3 per 1,000 people.

To prevent influenza, Jeonbuk Province has been providing free national influenza vaccinations for children, pregnant women, and seniors aged 65 and over at designated medical institutions nationwide from September 20 until April 30 for the 2024-2025 season.

During this season, the vaccination rates for children and seniors aged 65 and over have decreased by about 2 percentage points compared to the same period last season. Those eligible for the national vaccination program who have not yet been vaccinated are strongly encouraged to get their shots as soon as possible.

Within the province, the influenza vaccination rate is 82.9% for seniors aged 65 and over and 63.1% for children (those requiring a single dose), which is a decrease of 2.1% and 3.0%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.

The currently circulating influenza virus is similar to the strain used in this season's vaccine production, so sufficient preventive effects can be expected through vaccination.

Vaccinations can be received at any designated institution regardless of address, and detailed information can be found on the Immunization Helper website.

A provincial official stated, "As an influenza epidemic advisory has been issued, we urge children, pregnant women, and seniors aged 65 and over to get vaccinated as soon as possible," and added, "Please strictly follow respiratory infection prevention guidelines such as hand washing, practicing cough etiquette, wearing masks, and ventilating indoor spaces."

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