John Lee gets seasonal flu vaccine and urges citizens to do the same

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu led a group of officials to receive the seasonal influenza vaccine (SIV) on Thursday while urging the public to get vaccinated as soon as possible in preparation for the winter influenza season.

Lee said Hong Kong has recorded multiple serious and death cases upon entering the summer influenza season this August. He noted receiving SIV is one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal flu and its complications.

“We are expecting a high chance for seasonal influenza outbreak this winter given that it will be our very first winter after the lifting of all mandatory mask-wearing requirements,” he added, “I strongly appeal to high-risk groups in particular to receive SIV as early as possible.”

Chief Secretary for Administration Chan Kwok-ki, his deputy Cheuk Wing-hing, the Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po and his deputy Michael Wong Wai-lun also joined Lee in getting vaccinated.

Eligible citizens such as those aged 50 or above, persons aged 18 to 49 years with underlying comorbidities, children aged six months or above and with immunocompromising conditions, pregnant women and healthcare workers, can enjoy free or discounted seasonal flu vaccine and the government has called on the public for early inoculation.

The Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Subsidy Scheme this year went live last Thursday (Sept 28), while the Government Vaccination Programme, SIV School Outreach and Residential Care Home Vaccination Program were launched today (Oct 5).