Is the Flu Just a Minor Thing? Why Get Vaccinated for Influenza?

In Hong Kong, the peak seasons for influenza occur from January to March, April, and July to August. The Centre for Health Protection has indicated that this year's flu season has been more active compared to the past three years. The overall rate of hospital admissions due to influenza has been on the rise. Among the high-risk groups, including the elderly, children, and individuals with chronic conditions, it is crucial to get vaccinated against the flu as soon as possible to help prevent its spread.

What is Influenza?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infectious disease that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is spread through respiratory droplets produced when coughing or sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces where the virus can survive for up to 24 hours.

There are three main types of influenza: Type A, Type B, and Type C. In Hong Kong, the prevalent types are primarily Type A (including H1N1) and Type B. Symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, runny nose, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can lead to lung complications and even death.

Why Should I Get the Flu Vaccine Every Year?

Influenza viruses are RNA viruses that mutate rapidly, much faster than DNA viruses. Each year, the viral strains circulating can vary, and there is no predictable pattern to these changes. That's why infectious disease experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) collect global samples and determine which viral strains to include in the vaccines each year. This highlights the importance of getting the flu vaccine annually. Without yearly vaccination, the risk of contracting the flu cannot be effectively reduced.



Free/Subsidized Flu Vaccination for Adults Aged 50 and Above

Starting from April 2023, Hong Kong residents aged 50 and above are eligible for a subsidy of HKD 260 per dose for seasonal flu vaccination. This subsidy can be used to receive the vaccine at registered private doctor clinics participating in the program.

Flu vaccines in Hong Kong are categorized into "trivalent" and "quadrivalent" inactivated vaccines. According to the Centre for Health Protection, the trivalent vaccine is expected to provide protection against most flu cases, while the quadrivalent vaccine offers additional coverage against type B influenza. Both injection and nasal spray options are available, and your healthcare provider will determine the most suitable vaccine based on your individual circumstances.

*Information provided by GSK