The government has ruled out the possibility of setting up “mobile stations” for influenza vaccinations due to health and safety issues, according to a regular meeting of the Northern District Community Service Consultative Council yesterday where officials from the Health Bureau (SSM) briefed its members about the government’s ongoing work tackling influenza.
Chan Ian Ian, a deputy convenor of the government-appointed council, made the remarks while briefing reporters after yesterday’s closed-door meeting.
According to Chan, several councillors suggested during the meeting that the Health Bureau set up “mobile stations” for influenza vaccinations in the community with the aim of boosting jab rates.
Currently, flu jabs are provided to local residents at public health centres free of charge. Paid flu vaccinations are also provided at certain private medical institutions such as Kiang Wu Hospital for non-local residents.
The officials replied yesterday that there are the respective health and safety requirements for facilities used for vaccinations because of which the bureau will not set up “mobile stations” for influenza vaccinations in the community, according to Chan.
