Hong Kong schools required to give reasons for opting out of flu jab scheme

Hong Kong authorities aim to boost the flu vaccine coverage rate for the coming year by requiring schools to provide reasons for formally opting out of an outreach programme, and procure jabs for some family doctors to ensure a steady supply.

The Department of Health on Monday unveiled the government’s plan to encourage more people to get flu jabs, with the latest seasonal vaccination programme to start on September 25.

Dr Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, controller of the Centre for Health Protection, noted that the number of severe cases among adults and children in the previous flu season fell by 20 per cent and 60 per cent, respectively, compared with flu seasons before the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Our overall vaccination coverage rate last year was quite high, resulting in a drop in serious cases and outbreaks,” he said.

Authorities also plan to implement a mechanism that requires schools to inform the department if they are not taking part in the vaccination programme and to provide reasons for the decision.

Schools not taking part in the programme will also be required to complete a survey to gauge their students’ vaccination rate near the end of the flu season.