{"content_id":"uhkljmkcbq","slug":"influenza-national-vaccination-2026-2027-age-schedule","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"policy_guide","category_name":"Policy Guide","title":"2026 National Flu Vaccination Schedule by Age","summary":"For the 2026-2027 season, free vaccinations are available to children aged 6 months to 14 years, pregnant women, and adults aged 65 and older. Vaccinations begin September 21 for children and pregnant women, and October 6, 12, or 15 for older adults, depending on age.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["For the 2026-2027 season, children aged 6 months to 14 years are eligible.","The start date for children who need one dose has also been moved up to September 21, 2026.","Vaccinations for older adults begin on October 6 for those aged 75 and older, October 12 for those aged 70 to 74, and October 15 for those aged 65 to 69.","Free vaccinations for all eligible groups this season end on April 30, 2027.","You can use a participating medical facility regardless of your address, but must check whether vaccinations are available before visiting."],"content_markdown":"The national influenza vaccination program for the 2026-2027 season provides free vaccinations to children, pregnant women, and adults aged 65 or older. Children who need two doses and pregnant women can start getting vaccinated on September 21. Vaccination for older adults begins on October 6, 12, or 15, depending on age.\n\nThe dates and figures are based on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's September 16, 2026 announcement and its guidelines for the 2026-2027 season.\n\n## Who is eligible for free vaccination and what is covered\n\nThis season, the program covers children aged 6 months to 14 years, pregnant women, and adults aged 65 or older. It pays for influenza vaccination for people who meet the national eligibility criteria. The vaccine provided is an inactivated trivalent influenza vaccine.\n\n| Group | Eligibility for the 2026-2027 season | How eligibility is confirmed |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Children | Aged 6 months to 14 years, born January 1, 2012, through August 31, 2026 | Actual date of birth |\n| Pregnant women | Women whose pregnancy has been confirmed | Maternity record book, pregnancy confirmation certificate, or similar document, regardless of stage of pregnancy |\n| Older adults | Born by December 31, 1961 | Birth year on resident registration records |\n\nThe upper age limit for children has expanded from 13 last season to **14 this season**. If a child's registered date of birth differs from their actual date of birth, the actual date applies. Pregnant women are not excluded from the program simply because they are in early pregnancy. The detailed criteria are set out in the [vaccination program information](https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=134\u0026menuLv=1).\n\n## Influenza vaccination schedules by age group\n\nAn adjustment on September 16, 2026 moved up the start dates for children who need one dose and for older adults. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency cited an early influenza season and the need to protect high-risk groups as reasons for the change. The start dates for children who need two doses and for pregnant women have not changed.\n\n| Group | Previous start date | New start date |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Children who need one dose | September 28, 2026 | September 21, 2026 |\n| Children who need two doses | September 21, 2026 | September 21, 2026 |\n| Pregnant women | September 21, 2026 | September 21, 2026 |\n| Aged 75 or older, born by December 31, 1951 | October 12, 2026 | October 6, 2026 |\n| Aged 70 to 74, born from 1952 to 1956 | October 15, 2026 | October 12, 2026 |\n| Aged 65 to 69, born from 1957 to 1961 | October 19, 2026 | October 15, 2026 |\n\nThe program ends for all groups on **April 30, 2027**. Moving up the start dates did not change the end date. The revised schedule and program period are available in the [2026-2027 influenza season guidelines](https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/55/310104/download.do).\n\nThere is an exception for high-risk older adults, including those with weakened immune systems. After consulting a healthcare professional, they can be vaccinated from October 6 regardless of their age group's start date. Separate start-date criteria based on vaccine supply apply to long-term care hospitals and facilities. This exception is set out in the [Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's September 16 announcement](https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/42/309764/download.do).\n\n## How is the number of doses for children determined?\n\nThe number of doses a child needs this season depends on their age and vaccination history. Having the same start date does not mean children need the same number of doses. For children aged 6 months to less than 9 years, previous vaccination records must be checked.\n\n| Age and vaccination history | Doses needed this season |\n| --- | --- |\n| Aged 6 months to less than 9 years, receiving influenza vaccination for the first time or with an unknown history | Two doses at least 4 weeks apart |\n| Same age group, with one dose in total by June 30, 2026 | Two doses at least 4 weeks apart |\n| Same age group, with at least two doses in total by June 30, 2026 | One dose |\n| Eligible children aged 9 or older | One dose, regardless of vaccination history |\n\nThe total number of previous doses is not limited to doses received in the same season. Doses received in different seasons also count. The physician conducting the pre-vaccination screening checks the records and determines the final number of doses and vaccination dates. These rules come from the [vaccination standards in the guidelines](https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/55/310104/download.do).\n\n## Applying the rules: birth dates and when vaccination is possible\n\nBeing within the eligible birth-date range is not the same as being able to get vaccinated immediately. A minimum age also applies to children on the day of vaccination. For older adults, this season's birth-year criteria apply.\n\n| Situation | Result under the criteria |\n| --- | --- |\n| A child's birth date is within the eligible range, but the child is not yet 6 months old | The child cannot be vaccinated before reaching 6 months of age |\n| A person born in 1961 has not yet had their birthday in 2026 | The start date for their birth-year group applies; they do not need to wait for their birthday |\n| Vaccination takes place in 2027 | The birth-date cutoff for older adults remains December 31, 1961, for this season |\n\nThese examples apply the [birth-date and minimum-age criteria in the program information](https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=134\u0026menuLv=1) to different situations. A change in calendar year does not automatically change the birth years eligible for the program. When scheduling vaccinations for family members, check each person's criteria separately.\n\n## Checking vaccination sites and vaccine availability\n\nYou can get vaccinated at a participating medical institution or public health center outside your area of residence. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's “Moving Up National Vaccinations for Children and Older Adults in Response to an Early Influenza Season” states:\n\n\u003e National influenza vaccinations are available at nearby participating medical institutions and public health centers regardless of where you live.\n\nWhen searching for a facility, select the correct group: children, older adults, or pregnant women. Even if a facility appears as a participating medical institution, you still need to confirm whether it can provide vaccination that day. Vaccine information for each facility may change.\n\n1. Go to “Vaccination Management” on the vaccination information site.\n2. Select “Find a Participating Medical Institution \u003e Influenza Vaccination.”\n3. Select the eligible group and region to search for facilities.\n4. Contact the facility you plan to visit to confirm whether vaccination is available and whether it has vaccine in stock.\n\nYou can also search separately for facilities that have cell-cultured vaccines. Eligible people can receive this vaccine under the national program this season. If you have an egg allergy, consult a doctor before vaccination. Search results and stock information are available through [Find an Influenza Vaccination Provider](https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/mngm/goVcntMngm.do?menuCd=333\u0026menuLv=3).\n\n## Documents to bring and observation after vaccination\n\nBring documents that confirm your eligibility when you visit. For children, these include a resident registration certificate or National Health Insurance card. Pregnant women need a maternity record book or other proof of pregnancy.\n\n| Group | Documents to prepare |\n| --- | --- |\n| Older adults | ID |\n| Children | Resident registration certificate, National Health Insurance card, or similar document |\n| Pregnant women | ID and maternity record book, pregnancy confirmation certificate, or similar document |\n\nAfter vaccination, remain at the facility for **20 to 30 minutes** so staff can watch for adverse reactions. Get plenty of rest after returning home. This follows the [Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's guidance for before and after vaccination](https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/42/309764/download.do).\n\n## Common mistakes when reading older guidance\n\nEven on an official website, check which season a page applies to and when it was last updated. General information about influenza and this season's program information may have been updated at different times. Read eligibility and schedule information in the guidance for the relevant season.\n\n- Applying older guidance that lists the upper age limit for children as 13 to this season is a mistake.\n- You may remember September 28 as the start date for children who need one dose, but that was the date before the change.\n- Do not interpret a facility appearing in search results as confirmation that it has vaccine available that day or that a booking is complete.\n\nThe [general influenza information page](https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=1112\u0026menuLv=1) was last reviewed on January 20, 2025. It still lists children up to age 13 as eligible. For this season's age limit of 14, follow the program information and guidelines cited above.\n\n## Frequently asked questions\n\n### Do I need another vaccination this year if I was vaccinated last year?\n\nOlder adults and pregnant women receive one dose each year regardless of vaccinations in previous seasons. For children, the number of doses depends on age and total vaccination history.\n\n### If I qualify for free vaccination, can I go to any hospital?\n\nYou must go to a medical institution participating in the national program or a public health center that provides vaccinations. There is no restriction based on where you live, but you should confirm that the facility can provide the vaccination.\n\n### Am I eligible in early pregnancy?\n\nYou are eligible regardless of the stage of pregnancy. Your pregnancy is confirmed with a maternity record book, pregnancy confirmation certificate, or similar document.\n\n### Does the program end if I cannot get vaccinated on the start date?\n\nThe start date is the first day vaccination is available. The program runs through April 30, 2027, for this season.\n\nThe program rules in these answers follow the [vaccination information site's guidance for this season](https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=134\u0026menuLv=1).","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eThe national influenza vaccination program for the 2026-2027 season provides free vaccinations to children, pregnant women, and adults aged 65 or older. Children who need two doses and pregnant women can start getting vaccinated on September 21. Vaccination for older adults begins on October 6, 12, or 15, depending on age.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dates and figures are based on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's September 16, 2026 announcement and its guidelines for the 2026-2027 season.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#who-is-eligible-for-free-vaccination-and-what-is-covered\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"who-is-eligible-for-free-vaccination-and-what-is-covered\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWho is eligible for free vaccination and what is covered\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis season, the program covers children aged 6 months to 14 years, pregnant women, and adults aged 65 or older. It pays for influenza vaccination for people who meet the national eligibility criteria. The vaccine provided is an inactivated trivalent influenza vaccine.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGroup\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eEligibility for the 2026-2027 season\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHow eligibility is confirmed\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eChildren\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Eligibility for the 2026-2027 season\"\u003eAged 6 months to 14 years, born January 1, 2012, through August 31, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How eligibility is confirmed\"\u003eActual date of birth\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003ePregnant women\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Eligibility for the 2026-2027 season\"\u003eWomen whose pregnancy has been confirmed\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How eligibility is confirmed\"\u003eMaternity record book, pregnancy confirmation certificate, or similar document, regardless of stage of pregnancy\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eOlder adults\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Eligibility for the 2026-2027 season\"\u003eBorn by December 31, 1961\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How eligibility is confirmed\"\u003eBirth year on resident registration records\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe upper age limit for children has expanded from 13 last season to \u003cstrong\u003e14 this season\u003c/strong\u003e. If a child's registered date of birth differs from their actual date of birth, the actual date applies. Pregnant women are not excluded from the program simply because they are in early pregnancy. The detailed criteria are set out in the \u003ca href=\"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=134\u0026amp;menuLv=1\"\u003evaccination program information\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#influenza-vaccination-schedules-by-age-group\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"influenza-vaccination-schedules-by-age-group\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eInfluenza vaccination schedules by age group\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn adjustment on September 16, 2026 moved up the start dates for children who need one dose and for older adults. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency cited an early influenza season and the need to protect high-risk groups as reasons for the change. The start dates for children who need two doses and for pregnant women have not changed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGroup\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePrevious start date\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNew start date\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eChildren who need one dose\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Previous start date\"\u003eSeptember 28, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"New start date\"\u003eSeptember 21, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eChildren who need two doses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Previous start date\"\u003eSeptember 21, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"New start date\"\u003eSeptember 21, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003ePregnant women\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Previous start date\"\u003eSeptember 21, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"New start date\"\u003eSeptember 21, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eAged 75 or older, born by December 31, 1951\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Previous start date\"\u003eOctober 12, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"New start date\"\u003eOctober 6, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eAged 70 to 74, born from 1952 to 1956\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Previous start date\"\u003eOctober 15, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"New start date\"\u003eOctober 12, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eAged 65 to 69, born from 1957 to 1961\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Previous start date\"\u003eOctober 19, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"New start date\"\u003eOctober 15, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe program ends for all groups on \u003cstrong\u003eApril 30, 2027\u003c/strong\u003e. Moving up the start dates did not change the end date. The revised schedule and program period are available in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/55/310104/download.do\"\u003e2026-2027 influenza season guidelines\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is an exception for high-risk older adults, including those with weakened immune systems. After consulting a healthcare professional, they can be vaccinated from October 6 regardless of their age group's start date. Separate start-date criteria based on vaccine supply apply to long-term care hospitals and facilities. This exception is set out in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/42/309764/download.do\"\u003eKorea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's September 16 announcement\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-is-the-number-of-doses-for-children-determined\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-is-the-number-of-doses-for-children-determined\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow is the number of doses for children determined?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe number of doses a child needs this season depends on their age and vaccination history. Having the same start date does not mean children need the same number of doses. For children aged 6 months to less than 9 years, previous vaccination records must be checked.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAge and vaccination history\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDoses needed this season\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Age and vaccination history\"\u003eAged 6 months to less than 9 years, receiving influenza vaccination for the first time or with an unknown history\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Doses needed this season\"\u003eTwo doses at least 4 weeks apart\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Age and vaccination history\"\u003eSame age group, with one dose in total by June 30, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Doses needed this season\"\u003eTwo doses at least 4 weeks apart\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Age and vaccination history\"\u003eSame age group, with at least two doses in total by June 30, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Doses needed this season\"\u003eOne dose\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Age and vaccination history\"\u003eEligible children aged 9 or older\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Doses needed this season\"\u003eOne dose, regardless of vaccination history\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe total number of previous doses is not limited to doses received in the same season. Doses received in different seasons also count. The physician conducting the pre-vaccination screening checks the records and determines the final number of doses and vaccination dates. These rules come from the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/55/310104/download.do\"\u003evaccination standards in the guidelines\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#applying-the-rules-birth-dates-and-when-vaccination-is-possible\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"applying-the-rules-birth-dates-and-when-vaccination-is-possible\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eApplying the rules: birth dates and when vaccination is possible\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing within the eligible birth-date range is not the same as being able to get vaccinated immediately. A minimum age also applies to children on the day of vaccination. For older adults, this season's birth-year criteria apply.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eResult under the criteria\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eA child's birth date is within the eligible range, but the child is not yet 6 months old\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Result under the criteria\"\u003eThe child cannot be vaccinated before reaching 6 months of age\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eA person born in 1961 has not yet had their birthday in 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Result under the criteria\"\u003eThe start date for their birth-year group applies; they do not need to wait for their birthday\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eVaccination takes place in 2027\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Result under the criteria\"\u003eThe birth-date cutoff for older adults remains December 31, 1961, for this season\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese examples apply the \u003ca href=\"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=134\u0026amp;menuLv=1\"\u003ebirth-date and minimum-age criteria in the program information\u003c/a\u003e to different situations. A change in calendar year does not automatically change the birth years eligible for the program. When scheduling vaccinations for family members, check each person's criteria separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#checking-vaccination-sites-and-vaccine-availability\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"checking-vaccination-sites-and-vaccine-availability\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eChecking vaccination sites and vaccine availability\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can get vaccinated at a participating medical institution or public health center outside your area of residence. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's “Moving Up National Vaccinations for Children and Older Adults in Response to an Early Influenza Season” states:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNational influenza vaccinations are available at nearby participating medical institutions and public health centers regardless of where you live.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen searching for a facility, select the correct group: children, older adults, or pregnant women. Even if a facility appears as a participating medical institution, you still need to confirm whether it can provide vaccination that day. Vaccine information for each facility may change.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo to “Vaccination Management” on the vaccination information site.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSelect “Find a Participating Medical Institution \u0026gt; Influenza Vaccination.”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSelect the eligible group and region to search for facilities.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContact the facility you plan to visit to confirm whether vaccination is available and whether it has vaccine in stock.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can also search separately for facilities that have cell-cultured vaccines. Eligible people can receive this vaccine under the national program this season. If you have an egg allergy, consult a doctor before vaccination. Search results and stock information are available through \u003ca href=\"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/mngm/goVcntMngm.do?menuCd=333\u0026amp;menuLv=3\"\u003eFind an Influenza Vaccination Provider\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#documents-to-bring-and-observation-after-vaccination\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"documents-to-bring-and-observation-after-vaccination\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDocuments to bring and observation after vaccination\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBring documents that confirm your eligibility when you visit. For children, these include a resident registration certificate or National Health Insurance card. Pregnant women need a maternity record book or other proof of pregnancy.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGroup\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDocuments to prepare\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eOlder adults\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Documents to prepare\"\u003eID\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003eChildren\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Documents to prepare\"\u003eResident registration certificate, National Health Insurance card, or similar document\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Group\"\u003ePregnant women\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Documents to prepare\"\u003eID and maternity record book, pregnancy confirmation certificate, or similar document\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter vaccination, remain at the facility for \u003cstrong\u003e20 to 30 minutes\u003c/strong\u003e so staff can watch for adverse reactions. Get plenty of rest after returning home. This follows the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/42/309764/download.do\"\u003eKorea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's guidance for before and after vaccination\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes-when-reading-older-guidance\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes-when-reading-older-guidance\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon mistakes when reading older guidance\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven on an official website, check which season a page applies to and when it was last updated. General information about influenza and this season's program information may have been updated at different times. Read eligibility and schedule information in the guidance for the relevant season.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApplying older guidance that lists the upper age limit for children as 13 to this season is a mistake.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou may remember September 28 as the start date for children who need one dose, but that was the date before the change.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo not interpret a facility appearing in search results as confirmation that it has vaccine available that day or that a booking is complete.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=1112\u0026amp;menuLv=1\"\u003egeneral influenza information page\u003c/a\u003e was last reviewed on January 20, 2025. It still lists children up to age 13 as eligible. For this season's age limit of 14, follow the program information and guidelines cited above.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#do-i-need-another-vaccination-this-year-if-i-was-vaccinated-last-year\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"do-i-need-another-vaccination-this-year-if-i-was-vaccinated-last-year\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDo I need another vaccination this year if I was vaccinated last year?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOlder adults and pregnant women receive one dose each year regardless of vaccinations in previous seasons. For children, the number of doses depends on age and total vaccination history.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#if-i-qualify-for-free-vaccination-can-i-go-to-any-hospital\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"if-i-qualify-for-free-vaccination-can-i-go-to-any-hospital\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIf I qualify for free vaccination, can I go to any hospital?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou must go to a medical institution participating in the national program or a public health center that provides vaccinations. There is no restriction based on where you live, but you should confirm that the facility can provide the vaccination.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#am-i-eligible-in-early-pregnancy\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"am-i-eligible-in-early-pregnancy\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eAm I eligible in early pregnancy?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou are eligible regardless of the stage of pregnancy. Your pregnancy is confirmed with a maternity record book, pregnancy confirmation certificate, or similar document.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#does-the-program-end-if-i-cannot-get-vaccinated-on-the-start-date\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"does-the-program-end-if-i-cannot-get-vaccinated-on-the-start-date\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDoes the program end if I cannot get vaccinated on the start date?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe start date is the first day vaccination is available. The program runs through April 30, 2027, for this season.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe program rules in these answers follow the \u003ca href=\"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=134\u0026amp;menuLv=1\"\u003evaccination information site's guidance for this season\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["National immunization","Adolescent health","Healthy aging"],"faqs":[{"question":"Who is eligible for free vaccination in the 2026-2027 season?","answer":"Children aged 6 months to 14 years, pregnant people, and adults aged 65 or older. Eligible children were born from January 1, 2012, through August 31, 2026. Eligible older adults were born on or before December 31, 1961."},{"question":"When does influenza vaccination start for older adults?","answer":"In 2026, vaccination starts on October 6 for adults aged 75 or older and October 12 for those aged 70 to 74. For those aged 65 to 69, it starts on October 15."},{"question":"Do children who need only one dose also start getting vaccinated on September 21?","answer":"Yes. An announcement on September 16, 2026, moved the start date up from September 28 to September 21."},{"question":"How far apart should the two doses for children be given?","answer":"Children who need two doses this season should receive them at least 4 weeks apart. The doctor conducting the pre-vaccination assessment will check the child's age and vaccination history to set the schedule."},{"question":"Is free vaccination available in early pregnancy?","answer":"Yes, regardless of how far along the pregnancy is. Documentation such as a maternity handbook or a pregnancy confirmation certificate is required."},{"question":"Can I get a free vaccination at a medical facility in another region?","answer":"Yes, at contracted medical facilities and public health centers nationwide, regardless of your registered address. Check first whether the facility you plan to visit offers vaccination."},{"question":"Where can I check vaccination options if I have an egg allergy?","answer":"Consult a doctor before vaccination. You can search Immunization Helper for facilities that have government-funded cell-cultured vaccines."},{"question":"Can I go home immediately after vaccination?","answer":"Stay at the vaccination site for 20 to 30 minutes to watch for adverse reactions. Get plenty of rest after returning home."},{"question":"When does free vaccination coverage end?","answer":"For the 2026-2027 season, coverage ends on April 30, 2027, for all eligible groups. Check whether the facility offers vaccination before visiting."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/42/309764/download.do","title":"Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Moves Up National Influenza Vaccinations for Children and Older Adults in Response to an Early Influenza Outbreak, September 16, 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.kdca.go.kr/bbs/kdca/55/310104/download.do","title":"Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 2026-2027 Influenza Season Management Guidelines","type":"source"},{"url":"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=134\u0026menuLv=1","title":"Immunization Assistant, Information on the National Influenza Vaccination Program for the 2026-2027 Season","type":"source"},{"url":"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/mngm/goVcntMngm.do?menuCd=333\u0026menuLv=3","title":"Immunization Assistant, Find a Medical Institution Contracted to Provide Influenza Vaccinations","type":"source"},{"url":"https://nip.kdca.go.kr/irhp/infm/goVcntInfo.do?menuCd=1112\u0026menuLv=1","title":"Immunization Assistant, General Information on Influenza, Last Reviewed January 20, 2025","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1706,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjU5OTUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--b845964a9a1eb379a0d121f2e5e1e911b50687d0/ai-b5e14be9.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"간호사에게 독감 예방접종을 받는 어르신, 뒤에는 임신부와 어린이가 기다린다.","caption":"75세 이상 어르신의 무료 인플루엔자 접종은 2026년 10월 6일부터 시작된다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A nurse gives an older woman a flu shot while a pregnant woman and child wait behind them.","caption":"Free influenza vaccination for adults aged 75 and older begins October 6, 2026.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"高齢女性が看護師からインフルエンザの予防接種を受け、後ろで妊婦と子どもが待っている。","caption":"75歳以上の高齢者の無料接種は2026年10月6日に始まる。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una enfermera vacuna contra la gripe a una mujer mayor; detrás esperan una embarazada y un niño.","caption":"La vacunación gratuita contra la gripe para mayores de 75 años comienza el 6 de octubre de 2026.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Perawat menyuntik vaksin flu kepada perempuan lansia; ibu hamil dan anak menunggu di belakang.","caption":"Vaksinasi influenza gratis bagi warga berusia 75 tahun ke atas dimulai 6 Oktober 2026.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Uma enfermeira vacina uma idosa contra a gripe; ao fundo, uma grávida e uma criança aguardam.","caption":"A vacinação gratuita contra a gripe para pessoas com 75 anos ou mais começa em 6 de outubro de 2026.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"護理師為年長女性接種流感疫苗，後方有孕婦和孩子等候。","caption":"75歲以上長者的免費流感疫苗接種自2026年10月6日開始。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Pflegekraft impft eine ältere Frau gegen Grippe; im Hintergrund warten eine Schwangere und ein Kind.","caption":"Die kostenlose Grippeimpfung für Menschen ab 75 Jahren beginnt am 6. Oktober 2026.","description":null}}},{"id":1707,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjYwMDEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--9a00af2fd79b293461001216bced68d13b6957c1/ai-36b01ce6.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"팔에 작은 반창고를 붙인 소년이 소파에서 쉬고, 어머니가 곁에 물컵을 놓는다.","caption":"2026~2027절기 무료 인플루엔자 접종은 생후 6개월부터 14세까지 지원된다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A boy with a small bandage on his upper arm rests on a sofa as his mother sets down a glass of water.","caption":"Free influenza vaccination in the 2026–2027 season covers children aged 6 months through 14 years.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"上腕に小さなばんそうこうを貼った少年がソファで休み、母親がそばに水を置く。","caption":"2026～2027年シーズンの無料インフルエンザ予防接種は、生後6か月から14歳までが対象となる。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un niño con una pequeña tirita en el brazo descansa en el sofá mientras su madre deja un vaso de agua a su lado.","caption":"La vacunación gratuita contra la gripe en la temporada 2026-2027 incluye a menores de 6 meses a 14 años.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Anak laki-laki dengan plester kecil di lengan atas beristirahat di sofa saat ibunya meletakkan segelas air.","caption":"Vaksinasi influenza gratis musim 2026–2027 mencakup anak usia 6 bulan hingga 14 tahun.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um menino com um pequeno curativo no braço descansa no sofá enquanto a mãe coloca um copo de água ao lado.","caption":"A vacinação gratuita contra a gripe na temporada 2026–2027 abrange crianças dos 6 meses aos 14 anos.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"手臂貼著小塊OK繃的男孩在沙發上休息，母親在旁邊放下一杯水。","caption":"2026至2027流感季的免費接種對象包括滿6個月至14歲的兒童。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein Junge mit einem kleinen Pflaster am Oberarm ruht auf dem Sofa, während seine Mutter ein Glas Wasser abstellt.","caption":"Die kostenlose Grippeimpfung 2026/27 gilt für Kinder im Alter von sechs Monaten bis 14 Jahren.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-10-09T02:57:34+09:00","updated_at":"2026-10-09T02:57:34+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/influenza-national-vaccination-2026-2027-age-schedule"}