Gyeonggi Province announced on October 6 that the number of suspected flu (influenza) patients in the province has increased 1.3-fold over the past three weeks, urging the public to get vaccinated at the right time.

Suspected flu patients refer to individuals showing symptoms such as a fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, accompanied by a cough or sore throat.

According to Gyeonggi Province, the proportion of suspected flu patients per 1,000 outpatients in the province rose from 24.2 in the 36th week (August 30 – September 5) to 32.1 in the 39th week (September 20 – 26), marking a 1.3-fold increase over three weeks.

By age group, children aged 7 to 12 recorded the highest suspected patient proportion at 63.8, while those aged 65 and older stood at 14.8.

Nationwide, the proportion of suspected patients in the 39th week reached 33.0, which is 3.7 times higher than the same period last year (9.0).

Previously, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a 2026–2027 influenza epidemic advisory on September 11, and advanced the vaccination schedule for seniors, with inoculations for those aged 75 and older beginning today, October 6.

Sequential vaccinations will follow for those aged 70 to 74 starting on October 12, and those aged 65 to 69 on October 15.

Vaccinations for children (aged 6 months to 14 years) and pregnant women have been underway since September 21.
(Photo: Provided by Gyeonggi Province, Yonhap News)