South Korea is reviewing whether to include COVID-19 vaccines in its National Immunization Program (NIP) as the virus continues to spread alongside seasonal flu. The move is aimed at bolstering protection for high-risk groups.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said on Feb. 24 that it is conducting a study to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of making COVID-19 vaccines part of the NIP. The research assesses the potential benefits and economic impact of shifting from the current temporary government-supported vaccination program to full inclusion in the national immunization framework. Results are expected between May and June. A KDCA official said that once the study is complete, the agency will weigh COVID-19 vaccines against other immunizations before determining whether to add them to the program. “We will strengthen public health through proactive disease prevention measures,” the official said.
Medical experts emphasize that any vaccine incorporated into the NIP must be selected based on its effectiveness, safety, and cost-efficiency.
