Protect yourself and have a flu jab!

The seasonal influenza vaccination programme will start on 11 October for HA staff and on 25 October for eligible members of the public in public hospitals and general out-patient clinics. Dr Kitty Fung, Infection Control Officer cum Consultant Microbiologist at United Christian Hospital, reminds frontline staff that they should get a flu jab to protect themselves and those around them. Colleagues will receive a needle shaped pen as a souvenir after vaccination.

Q1: Do I need to receive seasonal influenza vaccination again if I had already had one during summer surge this year?

A1: Yes. Seasonal influenza vaccination taken during summer surge this year is the vaccine for 2016/17. The components of vaccine are different from that of the 2017/18 vaccines. The best protection period after vaccination is in general around four to six months, therefore a new vaccination is needed.

Q2: Can babies receive seasonal influenza vaccination?

A2: The vaccine is licensed for babies six‑month‑old or above. Those below six months get a small amount of antibodies from breast milk. For children below nine and have never received flu vaccination, they need to receive two doses of vaccines, with at least four weeks apart.

Q3: Is seasonal influenza vaccination suitable for everyone?

A3: People who have previously had severe allergic reaction to inactivated influenza vaccines or their components should not receive inactivated seasonal influenza vaccination. Individuals who have severe egg allergy, have bleeding-related disorders or are taking anticoagulants should consult a doctor before getting vaccinated.

Q4: Why do some people still suffer from flu after getting a jab?

A4: Influenza viruses are classified as type A, B and C. The vaccine can only protect vaccinated individuals from type A and B viruses. They are still susceptible to type C virus and respiratory infections caused by other viruses or bacteria. Maintaining good personal hygiene and habits of daily living will safeguard you against infection.

Q5: Will ward operation be affected if colleagues fall sick after vaccination?

A5: Influenza viruses may cause complications or even death in patients who have weak immunity. Therefore healthcare staff getting vaccination can protect themselves and their patients. Supervisors are advised to facilitate frontline colleagues to get vaccinated in turn.

Q6: Will I fall sick after being vaccinated?

A6: Currently, inactivated seasonal influenza vaccine is the only type of influenza vaccine registered in Hong Kong. It does not contain living viruses and does not cause influenza. Recipients may experience soreness, redness or swelling around the injection site, mild fever, and muscle and joint pain, which may last for up to two days. If there is persistent discomfort or presence of urticaria or shortness of breath, medical advice should be sought promptly.