Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme rolls out

The seasonal influenza vaccination programme rolls out today. Many elderly visit government clinics early in the morning to get their shots. Here at the Kwun Tong Community Health Centre,large crowds queue up at the flu vaccination station inside the clinic to get vaccinatied. some even insist on waiting for an hour.

Starting today,eligible citizens can receive free flu shots at Hospital Authority Clinics. This includes individuals aged between six months and under 18, and those aged 50 or above. Pregnant women and chronically ill patients aged 18 to 49 are also eligible.

The government has procured 1.6 million doses of vaccines for this round, including four types of injectable and nasal spray vaccines. Among them, 300,000 doses go to eligible private doctors. Citizens can also choose to receive their shots at private clinics.

The Health Bureau notes more than 99% of schools are particpating in the outreach vaccination programme. Only 14 schools have opted out. The government has visited 80 schools this month to administer vaccinations, and aims to complete the process for all schools before mid-December.

To make vaccination more accessible, authorities collaborate with the Home Affairs Department and the Housing Society to set up vaccination stations across various districts. Citzens can also visit one of the 45 District Health Centres to receive their shots.