Press Releases

SFH on influenza

Following is the transcript of remarks made by the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr Ko Wing-man, after attending a radio programme this morning (February 7):

Reporter: (On the seriousness of seasonal influenza and supply of vaccines)

Secretary for Food and Health: In view of the high number of severe cases of influenza during the winter outbreak period, experts have raised a possibility that the traditional winter influenza season from January to March might extend to April or even May. This is a distinct possibility. We are currently doubling our effort in sourcing vaccines for the new strain of H3N2 circulating in our community. Hopefully, the vaccine could arrive in April to help us in preventing an excessive outbreak in summer this year. The Hospital Authority is also stepping up its effort in using the existing vaccines to help patients of high-risk groups within its purview.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Saturday, February 7, 2015
Issued at HKT 13:39

NNNN