The Secretary for Food and Health, Professor Sophia Chan, attended an information sharing session on COVID-19 vaccines organised by the Taishan Charitable Association (TCA) today (September 29), to explain to cancer patients and survivors about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines offer and encourage them to get vaccinated if their health conditions allow.
      
     The Chairman of the Elderly Commission, Dr Lam Ching-choi, also attended the sharing session. Professor Chan said, "Senior citizens, persons with chronic diseases and other immunocompromised people face a comparatively high risk of deteriorating condition and death once infected by COVID-19. Both COVID-19 vaccines available in Hong Kong are safe and highly effective in protecting against severe symptoms and death from COVID-19 infection.
      
     "Generally speaking, except for those with contraindications, the elderly, chronic disease patients and cancer survivors should get vaccinated to protect themselves. For cancer patients who are undergoing treatment, they should discuss with their doctors on the best timing for vaccination.
      
     "I am delighted to learn that around 60 cancer patients and survivors participated in today's information sharing session. I would also like to thank the TCA for organising this activity, and the Medical Conscience for arranging a doctor to hold a health talk and answer questions from the participants so as to enhance their understanding of vaccine information and the protection the vaccines offer," she added.
      
     Professor Chan once again appealed to persons who are not yet vaccinated, especially senior citizens, chronic patients and other immunocompromised persons, to get vaccinated as early as possible for the sake of their own health. Members of the public who support the Early Vaccination for All campaign can help build a protective barrier for Hong Kong.

Ends/Wednesday, September 29, 2021
Issued at HKT 18:15

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