Immunization and Health Issues

IMMUNIZATIONS should be up-to-date for all family members, particularly for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, polio (DTP) and typhoid, although no vaccinations are required to enter South Korea.

The following vaccinations are recommended but are not mandatory:
Hepatitis A can be contracted through food and water. Given the lack of enforcement of sanitation rules prevalent in some eating establishments, vaccination again Hepatitis A is highly recommended.

Hepatitis B can be contracted from physical contact or from exposure to blood (for example, health-care workers). Vaccination is recommended if you may be exposed through medical treatment, if you are staying in Korea for longer than six months or if you may have sexual contact with the local population.

Japanese encephalitis can result from mosquito bites. Vaccination required only if you plan to visit rural areas for 4 weeks or more, except under special circumstances, such as a known outbreak of Japanese encephalitis

Tuberculosis is still quite prevalent in Korea and it is advisable to have a regular skin test.

A yearly flu vaccine is recommended by some as influenza and pneumonia are pretty common. People with asthma and other respiratory problems may be particular vulnerable due to the levels of pollution and the yearly chemically tainted yellow dust from China.

Before coming to Korea, you may consider boosting your immune system with a good vitamin/mineral supplement. If you take supplements, you may want to make sure to bring a good supply of your preferred brand with you. Some foreign brands are either imported or packaged/distributed in Korea. Check the company’s website to see if they can be found or are distributed in South Korea.

AIDS Test: Since 1989, all foreign residents wanting to stay in South Korea without their spouse for 91 days or more are required to undergo an AIDS test. The number of reported HIV/AIDS patients is very low and there is a perception that foreigners are the carriers.

HEALTH CONCERNS:

- The air pollution in Korea can exacerbate cardiopulmonary conditions
  such as asthma or bring about respiratory allergies
- The yellow sand (dust) which is most prevalent in the spring
  can be problematic for those with respiratory problems
  and can also cause ailments such as pinkeye in some people.
- Dry winters, unsanitary practices, crowded living conditions and
  public transportation are among the factors that contribute to the
  spread of antibiotic resistant strains of common illnesses
  as well as colds/flus.
- Bronchitis and pulmonary infections are common side effects of
  colds and flus.
- Car accidents either involving other cars and/or pedestrians
  are another health risk so make sure to wear seatbelts at all times
  and to be vigilant when walking.

Editor's Note: The information above is based on the information K4E has available at the time of writing. Given how difficult it is to obtain clear and complete information in Korea as well as how quickly rules can change, please see this as a guide and do follow-up with the appropriate Korean government bodies to confirm its accuracy and/or to get the most current answers. K4E would appreciate your feedback should you find out that our information is out-of-date. Contact us at info@korea4expats.com