SCS encourages civil servants to receive seasonal influenza vaccination early (with photos)

     The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung, visited the Kowloon Families Clinic today (October 28) to inspect the first-day implementation of the Civil Service Eligible Persons Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Pilot Scheme, and to show support to staff representatives from the four civil service central consultative councils who took the lead in receiving the influenza vaccination.

     Accompanied by the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, Mrs Yeung and the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Clement Leung, toured the designated area for vaccine recipients and listened to staff explaining the registration and vaccination processes. She also spoke with individuals receiving the vaccination and appealed to them to encourage their colleagues to schedule vaccinations early.

     "The Pilot Scheme is one of the measures announced in 'The Chief Executive's 2024 Policy Address' Supplement to enhance medical benefits for civil servants. The seasonal influenza vaccination is one of the most effective means to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications. As civil servants are in touch with the public frequently, vaccinations can better safeguard the health of colleagues, particularly the frontline staff, and reduce the risk of community and workplace transmission of influenza. Maintaining a healthy civil service will reduce the impact on the delivery of public services due to illness in the civil service during the influenza peak season, and alleviate the burden on the public healthcare system," Mrs Yeung said.

     The Pilot Scheme commences today and is open to all civil service eligible persons (CSEPs) aged 6 months or above. Those who have made an appointment can receive free seasonal influenza vaccinations at a families clinic. CSEPs interested in participating in the Pilot Scheme should call the families clinics' hotline (telephone number: 3950 9800) to make an appointment. For details, please visit the Civil Service Bureau website: www.csb.gov.hk/english/admin/benefits/66.html.