Hong Kong to explore flu vaccine procurement for family doctors amid supply concerns: official

Hong Kong health authorities are considering procuring flu vaccines for family doctors taking part in a vaccination scheme to ensure stability in the private market supply, a senior official said.

Undersecretary for Health Dr Libby Lee Ha-yun said on Friday that authorities were aware of supply concerns for private doctors in previous years. Hong Kong authorities have started their vaccination scheme ahead of the expected winter surge of infections.

“We know that there has been some instability in the supply of flu vaccines in the private market,” Lee told lawmakers.

“As to whether our Strategic Purchasing Office should count in the amount needed by the private sector when procuring flu vaccines, that’s something we are now discussing.

“Hopefully the supply will be more stable in the coming year.”

Hong Kong currently has two main flu vaccination schemes. The Government Vaccination Programme offers free doses to eligible groups, such as children and people aged 50 or older, at public clinics and hospitals as well as outreach programmes at elderly care homes.