Ulsan Urges Early Influenza–COVID-19 Dual Vaccination for High-Risk Groups

The Ulsan Metropolitan Government has urged high-risk groups to receive the influenza–COVID-19 dual vaccination during the current season, emphasizing the importance of timely immunization. According to the city, Mayor Kim Doo-gyeom received both vaccines simultaneously at the Nam-gu Public Health Center at 11:30 a.m. on November 20 as part of efforts to encourage participation among senior citizens.

Mayor Kim visited the vaccination site and received both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, underscoring the need for early protection. The city explained that this season’s vaccination campaign began on September 22 with influenza shots, followed by the start of free dual vaccination for seniors aged 65 and older on October 15. Ulsan noted that participation among older adults plays a key role in reducing the spread of infectious diseases within the community.

2025–2026 season COVID-19 and influenza vaccination for seniors. © The Korean Today / So-young Jeong

According to Ulsan, both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines have been formulated to respond to currently circulating viruses and are administered once a year as part of seasonal immunization. Vaccinations are available at designated local medical institutions, and citizens can check nearby clinics through public health centers or the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s Vaccination Helper website.(Vaccination Helper: https://nip.kdca.go.kr)

The 2025–2026 seasonal vaccination program will be available until April 30 of next year. Ulsan recommends completing vaccination by the end of November for optimal preventive effect, noting that antibody development requires time following inoculation. The city emphasized that the influenza–COVID-19 dual vaccination offers an efficient means of protecting high-risk groups.

Mayor Kim stated, “As influenza and COVID-19 are expected to spread earlier than usual this year, I urge seniors aged 65 and older, as well as other high-risk groups, to actively participate in vaccination.” He added that timely vaccination will help safeguard the overall health of the local community.

Ulsan plans to continue providing relevant information to citizens and strengthen preventive measures for high-risk groups to curb the spread of infectious diseases. The city will also maintain support and guidance to ensure a convenient vaccination environment, emphasizing the role of influenza–COVID-19 dual vaccination as a key method of reducing disease risk.

BY Jeong So-young: ulsangangbuk@thekoreantoday.com