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The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) reported on the 17th that it has issued a countrywide influenza (flu) outbreak alert beginning at midnight. This marks more than two months earlier than last year’s alert, which was announced on December 20, suggesting a quicker spread. Officials in the health sector are advising high-risk individuals, including children and the elderly, to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

This year’s advisory was activated as the number of patients showing suspected flu symptoms increased to 12.1 per 1,000 individuals between September 28 and October 4, according to data from 298 participating medical facilities across the country. The KDCA determines the advisory level using statistics from the previous three years, with this year’s threshold set at 9.1 per 1,000 people, which is higher than last year’s 8.6. The specific reason for the faster spread of the flu is still unknown. A KDCA representative noted, “Hong Kong and Taiwan have experienced a quick rise in cases since last month, and Japan has already issued an advisory,” adding, “Similar developments are occurring throughout East Asia.”

The government is offering free flu shots to people in high-risk categories, such as children between 6 months and 13 years old (born from January 1, 2012, to August 31 of this year), pregnant individuals, and those 75 years or older (born before December 31, 1950). Those aged 70 to 74 will become eligible for free vaccinations on the 20th, while individuals aged 65 to 69 will be eligible starting on the 22nd.