In a proactive move to bolster public health ahead of the upcoming flu season, the Hospital Authority in Hong Kong announced that individuals under 18 and those aged 50 and above can now receive seasonal influenza vaccines at public hospitals without the need for an appointment.
The decision, which takes effect this Thursday, is welcomed by medical experts who warn of a potentially challenging peak flu period in the months ahead. “Past experiences taught us that a flu peak may hit the city rapidly, so we call on citizens with no contraindications to get the jab as soon as possible so that our community will have enough protection and reduce deaths,” said Dr. Matthew Luk Man-hei, a consultant at the United Christian Hospital’s Department of Family Medicine and Primary Health Care.
The Hospital Authority will be administering a quadrivalent vaccine that covers four common influenza virus strains – the H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes of influenza A, as well as two influenza B virus strains. Dr. Luk noted that the vaccine can be taken concurrently with the COVID-19 vaccine, with the two shots given in different arms.
The expanded vaccine access aims to shield high-risk groups, including the chronically ill and pregnant women, ahead of the anticipated flu surge. “After we receive the seasonal flu jabs, it usually takes two to four weeks for our body to generate sufficient antibodies to protect us from the virus,” Dr. Luk explained. “So we urge residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible before the seasonal flu peaks.”
While the timing of flu peaks can be unpredictable, Dr. Luk expects virus activity to rise towards the end of the year as temperatures drop. The last flu peak in Hong Kong lasted an extended seven months due to virus strain changes, underscoring the importance of proactive vaccination measures.
Beyond the expanded vaccine access, the Hospital Authority has also reviewed its management systems following previous incidents, introducing around 30 suggestions to enhance hospital governance, accountability, safety awareness, and communication with patients – all aimed at improving service quality and patient safety.
As Hong Kong braces for the upcoming flu season, health officials are taking comprehensive steps to protect vulnerable populations and strengthen the resilience of the public healthcare system.
