Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP) is set to launch its comprehensive Seasonal Influenza Vaccination (SIV) Programmes on September 25, 2025, with ambitious plans to protect public health through expanded vaccine access and innovative strategies.

This year’s initiative builds on impressive previous achievements, with nearly 2.09 million vaccine doses administered during the last season—a 10% increase from the 2023-24 influenza period. The new programmes introduce several significant improvements designed to make vaccination more accessible and convenient for diverse population groups.

One of the most notable changes is the expanded eligibility for free or subsidized vaccines. Adults aged 18 to 49 with chronic medical conditions can now receive vaccinations regardless of their financial status, removing potential economic barriers to protection. This approach aims to ensure that individuals with underlying health risks can safeguard themselves without worrying about vaccination costs.

Schools will experience a particularly innovative transformation through a new “hybrid mode” vaccination approach. Participating educational institutions—including secondary schools, primary schools, kindergartens, and child care centers—can now choose between injectable inactivated and live attenuated influenza vaccines. An impressive 99% of schools, approximately 2,300 institutions, have already enrolled in the outreach program. For parents of children in non-participating schools, the CHP will publish a transparent list of such institutions, enabling alternative vaccination arrangements.

Seniors remain a critical focus of the vaccination strategy. Residents aged 65 or above in residential care homes, including those for persons with disabilities, will receive recombinant influenza vaccines. This targeted approach recognizes the heightened vulnerability of older populations to severe influenza complications.

To further support high-risk groups, the Department of Health has secured an additional 100,000 doses of injectable inactivated influenza vaccines specifically for the Specified Vaccination Subsidy Scheme with Family Doctors. This ensures that priority groups can access vaccines through their primary healthcare providers.

A significant administrative update requires eligible individuals aged 18 and above to register for eHealth, a digital platform designed to streamline personal health management. This requirement aims to improve record-keeping and encourage more proactive health engagement among residents.

The overarching goal of these programmes extends beyond mere vaccination—it’s about creating a comprehensive public health strategy that addresses multiple access barriers. By offering flexible vaccination options, targeting specific demographic groups, and leveraging digital technologies, the CHP demonstrates a nuanced approach to seasonal influenza prevention.

Individuals are encouraged to stay informed about these new initiatives and take advantage of the expanded vaccination opportunities. Whether you’re a parent, a senior, or someone with chronic medical conditions, the 2025-26 SIV Programmes offer tailored solutions to help protect your health.

As influenza continues to pose potential risks to community health, these proactive measures represent a critical step in preventing seasonal outbreaks and reducing the burden on Hong Kong’s healthcare system. The launch on September 25 marks the beginning of what promises to be a comprehensive and accessible vaccination campaign.