Osan City Health Center Provides Free Pneumococcal Vaccination for Elderly

The Osan City Health Center in Gyeonggi Province (Mayor Gwak Sang-wook) announced that it is providing free pneumococcal vaccinations throughout the year for elderly residents aged 65 and older (born before 1949) to prevent sepsis, meningitis, and other diseases caused by pneumococcal bacteria.

Unlike the seasonal flu vaccination administered annually, pneumococcal vaccination requires only one dose for adults aged 65 and older. For those who received the pneumococcal 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) at a clinic or hospital before age 65, revaccination is necessary after five years have passed.

Vaccinations are administered from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Vaccination Room of the Osan City Health Center. A valid identification document confirming residency within the city must be presented.

Meanwhile, those with conditions such as malignant tumors, leukemia, lymphoma, chronic kidney failure and other immunocompromised conditions, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, functional or anatomical asplenia, and similar conditions must consult with their attending physician regarding vaccination before visiting for inoculation.

A health center official stated, "The pneumococcal 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine administered this time is a safe vaccine that has been used worldwide for over 30 years." The official added, "Due to the nature of the vaccine, pain or swelling at the injection site may be more severe compared to flu vaccinations, but in most cases symptoms disappear within 48 hours."

For more information about this free pneumococcal vaccination program, contact the Vaccination Room at the Osan City Health Center (031-8036-6047, 6061).