Continued Increase of Influenza Cases Stresses the Importance of Vaccination and Personal Hygiene [Jan. 8 (Mon.), 2018]

Person in charge: Lee Hye-Rim (Division of Infectious Disease Control, 043-719-7127, lhr1234@korea.kr)


□ On December 1st, 2017, The Korean Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued an influenza epidemic alert for the 2017-2018 season, with 7.7 patients per 1,000 in Week 47. By Week 52, influenza-like illness (ILI) patients increased to 71.8 per 1,000 people.

 ○ The number of ILI patients is increasing across all age groups, and the proportion of patients aged 7-12 (144.8 per 1,000 people) and 13-18 (121.8 per 1,000 people) is especially high.

 ○ Since the start of the 2017-2018 influenza season (September 3rd, 2017) to Week 52 (December 30, 2017), laboratory surveillance system results have confirmed 302 cases of influenza B (54.1%), 218 cases of influenza A(H3N2, 39.1%), and 38 cases of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 (6.8%).

□ KCDC advises everyone to get vaccinated and to seek medical care if experiencing flu-like symptoms. KCDC also urges the practice of proper hand hygiene and cough etiquette to prevent the further spread of infection.