South Korea’s 2026-27 winter flu vaccination campaign will now include children up to 14 years old, aiming to broaden immunity coverage before the flu season peaks, with phased schedules for different age groups and an emphasis on reducing hospitalisations.
South Korea’s national influenza vaccination campaign for the 2026-27 winter season will begin next week, with the free programme widened to cover children up to the age of 14, according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. The move means pupils as old as middle school second form are now eligible for state support, reflecting an effort to reach a broader group before seasonal flu circulation intensifies.
The first jabs will be offered on 21 September to two-dose children and pregnant women. That group includes children aged six months to under nine years who are receiving flu vaccination for the first time, those whose previous vaccination history is unknown, and those who had only one dose by 30 June. One-dose children will follow from 28 September. Health authorities said the expanded child programme applies to those born between 1 January 2012 and 31 August 2026.
Older adults will be vaccinated in stages later than children and pregnant women. People aged 75 and above can start on 12 October, those aged 70 to 74 on 15 October, and those aged 65 to 69 on 19 October. The eligible group includes anyone born on or before 31 December 1961. According to official notices and reports by Korean media, the schedule is designed to manage demand and reduce congestion at clinics and public health centres.
This season’s shots will use a three-valent influenza vaccine recommended by the World Health Organisation, covering the viral strains it advises for the year. Vaccinations will be available nationwide at designated medical institutions and public health centres, regardless of home address, but authorities are advising people to check availability before visiting. The country has about 23,000 designated providers, and the government says simultaneous flu and Covid-19 vaccination is recommended for older adults.
Officials say the programme is intended to reduce hospital admissions and deaths linked to influenza among children, pregnant women and older people, and they are particularly urging families of newly eligible 14-year-old students to take up the offer.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
