Subsidised Flu Jabs To Start From Thursday

Health authorities are urging vulnerable groups to register for a subsidised seasonal vaccine ahead of this year's winter flu season before a possible fourth wave of Covid-19 infections hits the city.

A statement published by the Department of Health and the Centre for Health Protection warned that any person who catches the flu and Covid-19 at the same time will be more seriously ill, and getting the vaccine will offer individuals better protection ahead of the flu season.

The Vaccination Subsidy Scheme (VSS) will be launched on Thursday, and urged eligible groups to register from today to get the vaccine.

Eligible groups include persons aged 50 years or above, children aged six months to 12-years-old, pregnant women, persons with intellectual disabilities, and other vulnerable people getting help under the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme.

Free vaccinations will also provided at schools which have enrolled for it. Under this scheme, children attending kindergartens or child care centres can get a free flu vaccine from Thursday, and primary school students from October 22.

Parents of children not under the school outreach scheme can still apply for a subsidised vaccination for their children under the VSS.

The subsidy for each dose is HK$240, although some clinics may charge an extra fee.