Hong Kong to Launch Influenza Vaccination Programmes One Week Earlier Amid Transmission Risks

Hong Kong school students and other residents deemed at risk can receive their influenza vaccines one week earlier this year, after the government diversified its procurement efforts and streamlined administrative measures.

Authorities also said on Monday it would aim to boost the injection rate among people aged 65 or above and those aged six months to two years, adding that they would rely on reminders from doctors during medical encounters as a prioritised measure.

Dr Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, controller of the Centre for Health Protection, said the government’s seasonal influenza vaccination programmes for the year 2026-27 would begin on September 17, one week earlier than those in the previous year.

“Influenza is still active in August despite its having slightly subsided from the peak, and as students gather after school starts, transmission would be quicker,” Tsui said.

“We expected there would be some transmissions and outbreaks in schools after the new academic year starts, and therefore, we advised [students] to receive jabs as early as available.”

Among the affected programmes is the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme (VSS), which offers subsidised doses to vulnerable groups such as children, residents aged 50 or above, pregnant women and adults with chronic diseases.