Hongkongers Start Receiving BioNTech Jabs

Hong Kong on Wednesday began inoculating people against coronavirus with Germany's BioNTech vaccine, with some of those first in the queue saying they believe it will be safer and more effective than the Sinovac jab also available.

Seven centres – in Sai Ying Pun, Sai Wan Ho, Kowloon Tong, Kwun Tong, Lai Chi Kok, Sheung Shui and Yuen Long are now providing the BioNTech jabs, for priority groups at first.

Many of those who had booked appointments at the Kowloon Tong centre on Wednesday were foreign residents. People RTHK spoke to said they were confident about receiving the vaccine.

“I’m not afraid at all. Not at all. Because they have a full medical report published, and millions and millions of people abroad have already taken the jabs. I know there are no serious side effects,” said an 80-year-old man.

A pharmacist surnamed Lam agreed that any side effects should be mild.

"From overseas experience, this vaccine is also used in high risk groups, for the elderly and also people with chronic diseases. I have confidence in this vaccine," she said.

A 76-year-old man surnamed Azim said he was not concerned about having an adverse reaction to the jab.

“I’m in good health, so no problem for me,” he laughed.

“We were told that Pfizer/BioNTech is the best. Pfizer has more efficacy,” he added.

A man surnamed Lam, meanwhile, said he didn't want to take the Sinovac jab after seeing news reports about deaths and hospitalisations among people who had received it.

“I’m not confident about it. You can see on the news, one case after another. If I’m unlucky, I might be one of them,” he said.

Authorities and experts have said they don't believe the recent deaths were linked to the Sinovac jabs, and some of those taking the BioNTech vaccine on Wednesday said they would have preferred to get the China-made vaccine, but couldn't get an appointment slot.

Most of the people RTHK spoke to said they felt fine after having the BioNTech jab. They will need to take a second dose after three weeks.