The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said on the 26th that, starting on the 27th, it will expand government vaccination expense support for hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients—which had been limited to those 12 and under—to all ages.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients undergo intensive immunosuppressive therapy that largely erases existing immunity, so revaccination is needed to restore immunity and prevent complications. Until now, adolescent patients 13 and older and adult patients had to shoulder vaccination expenses on top of treatment costs, but the new measure is expected to ease the financial burden, especially for vulnerable groups.
The support covers 17 types of vaccines that prevent 15 infectious diseases, including hepatitis B, diphtheria, pertussis, measles, rubella, and varicella, and is available for up to three years from the date of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Vaccination is possible starting at least three months after transplantation, depending on the vaccine type, and the timing should be decided in consultation with the attending medical staff. Eligible vaccines and vaccination sites can be checked on the Immunization Helper website.
Im Seung-kwan, commissioner of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, said, "Vaccination is the most basic shield that protects the new daily lives and health of patients who have endured grueling treatment," adding, "Because the risk of progressing to severe disease from infectious diseases is high, please consult medical staff and get vaccinated in a timely manner."