'More jab options available as HK sees flu peak'

Hong Kong is currently experiencing a flu peak, according to Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau. The most effective way to protect vulnerable groups, he emphasized, is through vaccination. At a recent event, Lo and health officials received their seasonal flu vaccination at the Sai Wan Ho Family Medicine Clinic. Speaking to the media afterward, Lo confirmed that the government has procured 1.3 million vaccine doses for this year's vaccination program, with the first shipment already delivered to the city.

To ensure a sustainable supply of vaccines, authorities have implemented various improvement measures, including enhancing the vaccine procurement arrangement. The government has purchased different types of vaccines - inactivated, recombinant, and nasal spray live attenuated jabs - to cater to the needs of various groups. Lo explained that the school outreach program for students under 18 offers more vaccination options, including the nasal spray live attenuated flu vaccine.

Schools now have the flexibility to choose the vaccine type they prefer, and if they require both injectable inactivated vaccines and nasal spray jabs, the authorities can dispatch medics to provide both options simultaneously, giving parents the opportunity to select their preferred vaccination method.

In addition to these measures, Lo highlighted that the authorities have introduced digital consent forms for flu vaccination. The government aims to promote vaccination further in the community.