Centre for Health Protection Controller Dr Thomas Tsang warns a significant number of flu outbreaks are expected when the new school term begins next week, and the public should also stay vigilant against any possible outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease later this year.

Dr Tsang told the media today Hong Kong is remains in the summer influenza peak season, and the centre has recorded at least 300 isolates of flu virus a week showing the viruses are quite active in the community.

He also expects the number of hand, foot and mouth disease cases will rise next month with the peak season starting in October or November.

He urged schools, institutions and parents to stay alert and take precautions to prevent outbreak. Schools and institutions should report outbreaks immediately to the centre.

Dr Tsang said the pneumococcal vaccination programme for children will start in October at the Department of Health's Maternal & Child Health Centres, using a new vaccine which can prevent the 10 most common types of the disease.