COVID-19 vaccination becomes part of routine immunization, with high-risk groups starting Oct. 12

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) is transitioning COVID-19 vaccination from temporary to routine immunization and will begin the 2026-2027 national vaccination program in phases starting Oct. 12 for adults 70 and older, people with weakened immune systems and others.

On the 17th, KDCA announced its plan for the 2026-2027 national COVID-19 vaccination program. The transition was decided after a comprehensive review of COVID-19 trends, World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and policy directions in major countries, including the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom and Australia, as well as consultations with experts and deliberation by the National Immunization Advisory Committee.

Vaccination will run from Oct. 12 through June 30, 2027. Among adults 65 and older, those 70 and older can begin vaccination Oct. 12, and those ages 65-69 can begin Oct. 15. People 12 and older with weakened immune systems and residents of facilities for people vulnerable to infection can be vaccinated starting Oct. 12.

The program will use 4.84 million doses of the new XFG vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer). As in previous years, one dose will complete the annual vaccination course, while people with weakened immune systems will receive two doses. Emergency import procedures are underway for vaccines for people younger than 12 with weakened immune systems and others, and vaccination schedules will be announced separately.

Hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients need revaccination because most of their pretransplant immunity is lost after transplantation. The program will support three primary doses and additional doses, starting 3-6 months after transplantation and continuing for up to 3 years. However, because immune recovery varies by patient, recipients should consult their health care provider before vaccination.

Adults 65 and older are eligible for both influenza and COVID-19 vaccination and can receive both vaccines during a single visit to a vaccination site. Vaccination is available at nearby designated clinics or public health centers, regardless of address. People can check the Vaccination Assistant website in advance to find clinics and confirm vaccine availability.

Visitors must bring identification, a resident registration certificate or a National Health Insurance card. People with weakened immune systems must present supporting documents, such as a diagnosis certificate or medical opinion. After vaccination, they should remain at the vaccination site for 20-30 minutes to be monitored for adverse reactions before going home.

Im Seung-gwan, commissioner of KDCA, said, "The COVID-19 virus produces and spreads new variants every year, which can evade existing immunity, so it is important for high-risk groups to get vaccinated every year." He added, "In particular, I urge adults 65 and older to conveniently receive the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines at the same time during a single visit."