The influenza vaccination program for the 2026-2027 season will be rolled out sequentially by age group starting on the 21st of next month.

Starting from this season, 14-year-olds, who are currently second-year middle school students, have been added to the eligibility list for the influenza vaccination, allowing them to receive the vaccine for free.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) announced that the national influenza immunization program for children, pregnant women, and the elderly will run from the 21st of next month through April 30 of next year.

The eligible group has been expanded starting this season to prevent the spread of influenza among school-aged adolescents and to strengthen community protection.

The age range for children's vaccinations, previously from 6 months to 13 years of age, has been extended to cover those from 6 months to 14 years of age.

Vaccinations will begin on the 21st of next month for children requiring two doses and for pregnant women, and on the 28th of next month for children requiring a single dose.

For the elderly, vaccinations will begin on October 12 for those aged 75 and older, October 15 for those aged 70 to 74, and October 19 for those aged 65 to 69.

Influenza vaccines are formulated to be effective against viruses projected to circulate that year, in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.

The national immunization program for this season will utilize trivalent vaccines tailored to WHO recommendations.

Vaccinations can be received at nearby contracted medical institutions and public health centers regardless of one's place of residence.