The Social Welfare Department (SWD) today (April 1) reminded subsidised or subvented organisations/welfare service units that the Vaccine Pass arrangement has come into full implementation starting from today. Persons employed by these units are required to have received at least the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine in order to continue performing their duties or providing services.

     In a letter issued to non-governmental organisations today, the SWD also notified them of the updated Vaccine Pass arrangement, to align with the latest dosage schedule for the Vaccine Pass issued by the Government on March 20, including the requirement that concerned staff should have received the second dose of vaccination by end-May 2022, and that they should receive the third dose within six months after receiving the second dose.

     The Vaccine Pass arrangement does not apply to those who can produce valid medical proof of their unsuitability to receive COVID-19 vaccines due to health reasons. These persons will be required to undergo testing once every seven days.

     The SWD reiterated that the Vaccine Pass is an essential anti-epidemic measure, as COVID-19 vaccine can effectively help reduce deaths and critical cases; and strongly urged welfare sector staff to receive vaccination in order to protect themselves, their families, service users, colleagues and the community at large.

Ends/Friday, April 1, 2022
Issued at HKT 16:45

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