The deadline for free vaccination against the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) for high-risk groups has been extended by two more months.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency noted on the 22nd that it will extend the COVID-19 vaccination for the 24th and 25th periods for seniors aged 65 and older, immunocompromised individuals aged 6 months and older, and residents of high-risk facilities until June 30.
The original deadline for vaccinations was the end of this month. However, considering the increasing trend of COVID-19 cases during the summer and the fact that it takes about four weeks to develop immunity after vaccination, high-risk groups are urged to get vaccinated by May if possible.
As of the 17th, the vaccination rate among high-risk groups for COVID-19 in the country was only 47.4%. High-risk individuals who have already been vaccinated can receive another shot if it has been a long time since their last vaccination, but starting from the 1st of next month, there may be changes to the medical institutions where COVID-19 vaccinations can take place, so it is essential to check ahead on the vaccination helper's website before visiting.
The currently used COVID-19 JN.1 vaccine has been confirmed to elicit a valid immune response (neutralizing ability) against the JN.1 variant sublineages such as XEC and LP.8.1, which are currently prevalent in the country, demonstrating its preventive effectiveness.
Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Director Ji Yeong-mi said, “Given the potential for summer outbreaks of COVID-19, high-risk groups should actively participate in vaccination to prevent severe illness and death from COVID-19.”