The elderly may be given priority allocation of influenza vaccines when new supplies become available later this year.
Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases Chairman Dr Chow Chun-bong told reporters today the infection situation for seniors aged 85 and above is very serious, so giving them priority is being considered.
The committee will also analyse the infection figures in chronic disease patients to see which diseases bring a higher risk of flu complications, and may also give these patients priority in getting flu vaccinations.
He said the committee will make its recommendation when more information on the vaccine supply is available.
Centre for Health Protection Controller Dr Leung Ting-hung said the Government is forming a working group to implement the committee’s recommendations, and will discuss ways to boost vaccine coverage.
He also reported 22 new severe adult influenza cases were recorded from noon yesterday to noon today, including 18 deaths. It brings the total number of severe adult cases to 322, including 228 deaths.
