Hong Kong to look at procuring flu jabs for family doctors amid supply concerns: official
Undersecretary for Health Dr Libby Lee says authorities are aware of supply instability for private doctors in previous years
Hong Kong health authorities are considering procuring flu jabs for family doctors taking part in a vaccination scheme to ensure stability in the private market supply, a senior official has 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 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 schemes at elderly care homes.
