Recent reports from workplaces, schools, and online communities indicate a noticeable increase in flu cases, raising concerns among the public.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the number of patients with influenza-like illness per 1,000 outpatient visits at clinics was 9.2 during the 34th week of the year (August 16-22).
The percentage of patients with influenza-like illness has shown a steady increase over the past four weeks: 6.9 in week 31, 7.0 in week 32, 7.5 in week 33, and 9.2 in week 34. While the rise is not drastic, the continuous increase over four weeks has prompted calls for heightened awareness regarding infection prevention in daily life.
The increase in hospitalized patients has been more significant than that of outpatient cases. The number of hospitalized influenza patients in hospitals rose from 31 in week 30 to 38 in week 31, and then to 89 in week 34.
Among suspected respiratory infection cases at outpatient clinics, the detection rate of the influenza virus was 10.0%, with the A(H1N1)pdm09 strain being the most prevalent.
Online reactions have been swift, with users commenting, "One by one, people at my office are starting to take sick leave due to the flu," and "I heard a child at school is absent due to a high fever." Others expressed surprise, saying, "I never thought about the flu in summer," and "I thought it was just air conditioning sickness, but it turned out to be the flu for someone I know."
Parents of young children are particularly worried about the return to school and group activities. Comments included, "I wish kids with cold symptoms could take a break from after-school programs," and "I'm anxious that some parents might send their children to school even with a high fever, thinking it's just a common cold."
Among office workers, there are calls for improvements in workplace culture regarding sick leave. Some users noted, "If you have the flu, you feel pressured not to take time off, which could spread it to the entire office," and emphasized the need for realistic use of paid sick leave for the sake of both oneself and colleagues. They also suggested that it might be time to revisit basic health measures like wearing masks and ensuring proper ventilation.
In light of this, the national influenza vaccination campaign for the 2026-2027 season will begin on September 21. This year, the free vaccination eligibility for children has been expanded from those aged 13 to 14.
Children aged 6 months to 14 years who have not been vaccinated before or have only received one dose (for those under 9 years old) can start receiving vaccinations on September 21. For those eligible for a single dose, vaccinations will begin on September 28. The vaccination support period will last until April 30, 2027.
Free vaccinations for pregnant women will also start on September 21. They can receive the vaccine at designated medical institutions and public health centers by presenting documents confirming their pregnancy, such as a maternal health booklet or pregnancy verification certificate.
For seniors, vaccinations will begin on October 12 for those aged 75 and older, on October 15 for those aged 70-74, and on October 19 for those aged 65-69. Seniors will also have the opportunity to receive COVID-19 vaccinations on the same schedule, with simultaneous vaccination for both flu and COVID-19 recommended. The support period for all eligible individuals will end on April 30, 2027.
As the vaccination schedule is announced, online users have expressed their intentions to check vaccination dates for their children and not to delay getting vaccinated, especially with flu cases already appearing. Some welcomed the expansion of free vaccinations to include children up to 14 years old.
However, concerns were raised about the potential costs for adults who are not eligible for free vaccinations, and the need for companies to accommodate employees' schedules for vaccinations. Some voiced worries about the rising number of infections before the vaccination campaign begins.
Experts explain that while vaccinations do not completely eliminate the risk of infection, they are crucial in reducing the severity and risk of complications if one does contract the virus. It is particularly recommended for high-risk groups, including children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses, to receive vaccinations according to the established schedule.
As vaccination availability may vary by institution, individuals are advised to check for vaccine availability before visiting. Those eligible for national vaccinations can receive them for free at designated medical institutions or public health centers, regardless of their residence.
With recent indicators of influenza on the rise and the vaccination season approaching, the importance of personal hygiene management is becoming increasingly critical. Individuals are advised to wear masks and avoid crowded places if they experience fever or respiratory symptoms. Basic preventive measures such as handwashing, indoor ventilation, and following cough etiquette should also be practiced in daily life.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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