The Government announced today (September 28) that Community Vaccination Centres (CVCs) in various districts will offer free seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) to Hong Kong residents aged 50 or above when they are there for COVID-19 vaccination starting from October 6. Eligible persons may make reservations from tomorrow (September 29).
 
     The Scientific Committees under the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health reached a consensus in August this year that COVID-19 vaccines can be administered at the same time with other vaccines, including seasonal influenza vaccines.
 
     Starting from October 6, Hong Kong residents aged 50 or above may choose to receive both COVID-19 vaccination and free SIV at CVCs in various districts (see Annex). Eligible persons can make reservations for receiving both COVID-19 vaccination and SIV through the booking system of the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme (booking.covidvaccine.gov.hk) starting from 9am tomorrow. Eligible persons may also choose to receive free SIV on site when they are receiving the COVID-19 vaccination starting from October 6.
 
     A Government spokesperson said, "The winter influenza season is approaching. Given that the local seasonal influenza activity has been staying at low levels since February 2020, the overall immunity against influenza in the community is at present relatively low. The Government strongly urges the public to complete the recommended dosage of COVID-19 vaccines and the latest seasonal influenza vaccine as early as possible so that they can obtain better protection in the event of co-infection with COVID-19 and influenza."
 
     For details of the latest SIV programmes, members of the public may call the CHP at 2125 2125 or browse the dedicated webpage on Vaccination Schemes.

Ends/Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Issued at HKT 19:31

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