Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung today attended the first parent-child workshop held by the Government to promote the importance of COVID-19 vaccination for children.

The workshop is part of the Government's series of promotion and education activities aimed at providing parents with a deeper understanding of why it is crucial for children to receive the COVID-19 jab.

The first parent-child workshop was conducted at a kindergarten in Ma On Shan where dozens of parents and their children took part in the event to learn more about COVID-19 vaccines through games and clarification provided by one expert.

Upon attending the workshop, Mrs Yeung said she hopes parents can listen to more views from the experts and never underestimate the threat of the coronavirus.

She pointed out that children aged six months or above can receive COVID-19 vaccination starting from last month. Up till now, the vaccination rate of children aged below three is about 16%.

She reiterated that, even though the number of confirmed cases has slightly subsided these days, children should get vaccinated early to reduce their risks of death, falling seriously ill or severe aftereffects should they unfortunately get infected.

The civil service chief also encouraged parents to get their children vaccinated as early as possible for good protection before winter approaches.

A further 19 parent-child workshops or student workshops will be conducted at various kindergartens from today to November.

Should other sponsoring bodies of kindergartens or nurseries have an interest in organising such workshops at their own location, they should contact the activity’s secretariat by calling 2187 3090 during office hours.

Parents or guardians can make online appointments for their children to receive the Sinovac vaccine at community vaccination centres, designated Hospital Authority general out-patient clinics and private clinic COVID-19 vaccination stations.

They can also opt for making a reservation for free vaccination through more than 1,000 private doctors or clinics that participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme.