Filipino helpers to be given measles immunity tests at Hong Kong airport in bid to stem further outbreak but some call the measure discriminatory
- Department of Health announces pilot service as Hong Kong records highest annual number of measles cases in a decade
- Vice-chairman of the Filipino Migrant Workers’ Union Eman Villanueva says move sends out very dangerous message
Hong Kong is to provide measles immunity tests for about 200 Filipino domestic helpers arriving in the city’s airport.
The Department of Health on Thursday announced a pilot service as concerns grew over a possible further measles outbreak in Hong Kong. The city has so far recorded 67 measles cases – the highest annual number in a decade.
“Through the pilot service, the [department] hopes to better grasp the overall immunity against measles among Filipino domestic helpers working in Hong Kong,” a department spokesman said. “Participants will be informed of the results individually and measles vaccinations will be provided to those who do not test positive for measles antibody.”
The scheme, which is voluntary, aims to provide blood tests to about 200 Filipino helpers who newly arrive or return to work in the city on selected dates.
The department said the tests would be provided from 9am to 1pm on April 30, May 2 and 7. Leaflets would be distributed at the gates of flights arriving from the Philippines and airlines operating flights from the Philippines had also been informed of the arrangement.
