The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) today announced that the 2026-27 Seasonal Influenza Vaccination (SIV) Programmes will commence on September 17. The department urged the public, particularly target groups, to receive the vaccination as soon as possible after the launch.
Announcing the launch this morning, CHP Controller Dr Edwin Tsui noted that local influenza activity remains high, with influenza A (H1) predominantly circulating in the city, followed by influenza A (H3). Anticipating that activity will remain elevated during the start of the new school year, raising the risk of outbreaks in schools, Dr Tsui urged schools and parents to maintain vigilance and take preventive measures.
More than 2.03 million doses of vaccines were administered under the various SIV Programmes last year. Dr Tsui emphasised that SIV remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness and complications, while significantly reducing the risks of hospitalisation and death.
Last year, the rate of severe complications or death among unvaccinated children was about five times higher than that of vaccinated children. Similarly, the rate of severe complications or death among unvaccinated residents aged 65 years or older in residential care homes for the elderly was approximately four times higher than their vaccinated peers.
The Government has procured four types of vaccines this year. To make it easier for citizens to get inoculated, the Government will open all 29 Maternal & Child Health Centres for all children aged six months to under two years. The online booking system for these appointments will open from 9am on September 14.
Furthermore, the Primary Healthcare Commission has expanded its network, increasing the number of vaccination venues across District Health Centres and District Health Centre Expresses from 25 to 45. and their service points under the Primary Healthcare Commission has increased from 25 to 45. In addition, 76 Family Medicine Clinics and 38 public hospitals under the Hospital Authority will provide vaccination services.
More than 1,200 private doctors have joined the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme, providing services at over 1,900 points across the city. To ensure a stable private market supply, the number of vaccine doses available for procurement by eligible private doctors will be increased from 100,000 to 300,000 this year.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health is actively collaborating with District Councils and the District Services & Community Care Teams to promote community vaccination activities. As of August 30, the District Councils and the care teams have planned over 100 outreach vaccination activities over the next two months.