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Busan Extends Free COVID-19 Vaccinations for High-Risk Groups Until June 30

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Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Heong-joon) announced the extension of free COVID-19 vaccinations for high-risk groups until June 30 in preparation for potential outbreaks during the summer season.

○ In recent years (2022–2024), COVID-19 has shown increased infection rates not only in winter but also during the summer. Given the four-week period required to develop full immunity after vaccination, it is advised to get vaccinated as early as possible.

○ As of May 20, Busan’s vaccination rate for the 2024–2025 season stood at 45.4%, slightly below the national average of 47.4%.

The free COVID-19 vaccination program is available to high-risk groups, including:
▲ senior citizens aged 65 and older
▲ immunocompromised individuals aged 6 months and older
▲ inpatients and residents of high-risk facilities

○ Even those who have already received the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine may receive an additional dose after consultation with a healthcare provider, due to the waning immunity over time.

○ In particular, additional vaccinations are strongly recommended for immunocompromised individuals, as they may have difficulty developing sufficient immunity.

Vaccination availability at medical institutions may change depending on vaccine inventory. Therefore, recipients must call the facility before visiting.

Designated clinics can be found via the Korea Immunization Information System (nip.kdca.go.kr) or the website of the relevant local public health center.

*Website: nip.kdca.go.kr > Vaccination Management > Find a Designated Medical Institution

Lee So-Ra, Director of the Busan Citizens' Health Bureau, stated:
"Since we cannot rule out the possibility of a COVID-19 outbreak during the summer, we strongly encourage high-risk individuals—including seniors aged 65 and older, the immunocompromised, and residents of high-risk facilities—to receive their vaccination as soon as possible to help prevent severe illness and death from COVID-19."