COVID-19 Vaccination in Korea

Area of Science:

• Vaccinology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Multiple COVID-19 vaccines (mRNA, protein, viral vector) approved in Korea since December 2020.
• COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduces hospitalization and mortality from symptomatic disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• Summarize current COVID-19 vaccination recommendations in Korea.
• Outline approved vaccine types and eligibility criteria for primary and booster doses.
• Discuss adverse events and contraindications associated with COVID-19 vaccines.

Main Methods:

• Review of approved COVID-19 vaccines in Korea as of February 2023.
• Analysis of vaccination guidelines for primary and booster series.
• Summary of reported adverse events and contraindications.

Main Results:

• Primary vaccination recommended for adults (≥18 years); bivalent mRNA booster recommended for individuals (≥12 years) post-primary series.
• Booster vaccination can be administered 90 days after the last dose.
• Common adverse events are localized/systemic, more frequent in younger individuals; rare serious events include anaphylaxis, TTS, myocarditis, GBS.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 vaccination is a key public health strategy in Korea.
• Adherence to vaccination schedules and awareness of potential adverse events are crucial.
• Vaccination guidelines are subject to updates based on ongoing research and pandemic dynamics.