DH's free and one-off mop-up programme for measles vaccination concludes today
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In view of the measles outbreak that occurred last year, the CHP launched a one-off mop-up programme last year to provide free MMR vaccinations to three target groups including healthcare workers, airport staff and foreign domestic helpers working in Hong Kong, and extended the programme in February this year to cover Hong Kong adult residents who are non-immune to measles as a public health strategy to prevent and control measles.
A spokesman for the CHP said, "As vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles, all people, except for pregnant women and those who are known to be unfit for vaccinations, should consider receiving measles vaccination. Regarding the schedule, non-immune adults who have no history of receiving any measles-containing vaccine or with unknown vaccination history are advised to receive two doses at least four weeks apart. Only one dose is required for those who had already received one dose of measles vaccination in the past."
The spokesman reminded members of the public that, with the conclusion of the Free Measles Vaccination Mop-up Programme, they should consult their doctor for advice if they need to receive measles vaccination or if they have doubt about their immunity against measles.
Persons who have received two doses of measles vaccines at or after one year old, or who have had laboratory confirmed measles infection, are considered to be immune to measles and do not require MMR vaccination.
To prevent getting measles, members of the public are advised to take the following measures to prevent infection:
- Under the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme, children receive a two-dose course of measles vaccination;
- Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene;
- Maintain good indoor ventilation;
- Keep hands clean and wash hands properly;
- Cover nose and mouth with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissues into a lidded rubbish bin, then wash hands thoroughly;
- Clean used toys and furniture properly;
- Consult doctors promptly if one develops symptoms of measles; and
- Refrain from work or school till four days from the appearance of rash to prevent spread of the infection.
For information on measles, please visit the designated webpage (www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/100419.html).
Ends/Friday, September 18, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:00
Issued at HKT 18:00
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