The seasonal influenza vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent seasonal influenza. In addition to the elderly, children and pregnant women, people aged 50 to 64 should also be vaccinated against influenza, as local influenza epidemiology shows that people aged 50 to 64, irrespective of high-risk conditions, have a higher risk of intensive care unit admission and death associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 infections.

We need an influenza vaccination annually because the composition of the vaccine is periodically updated according to the circulating virus strain. Any immunity built up after vaccination in the previous season will decrease over time. Moreover, after vaccination, the body takes about two weeks to produce antibodies to help fend off the virus, so it is better to get vaccinated as early as possible each year.

The influenza vaccine is very safe. Except for slight pain, redness and swelling at the injection site, there are generally no other side effects. A few people may show symptoms like fever, muscle pain and fatigue beginning 6 to 12 hours after vaccination, but even then these only last for one or two days.

In October 2020, the Center for Health Protection of the Department of Health launched various vaccination programmes for the 2020/21 season. Persons aged 50 and above can receive influenza vaccination at private doctors’ clinics participating in the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme (VSS) and enjoy a subsidy of $240 per dose.

We encourage you to receive an influenza vaccination early to protect yourself and help prevent the spread of the influenza virus to your family, colleagues and others around you. At the same time, everyone should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene habits, together with a balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, and refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol. Let us strengthen our body’s resistance and act together to fight influenza.