Dear Sir/Madam,

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. COVID-19 Vaccination Stations to be set up at four public hospitals

​​The Government sets up COVID-19 Vaccination Stations in four public hospitals to enable patients visiting the hospital for follow-up appointments and visitors, in particular patients of specialist out-patient clinics, to receive BioNTech vaccination without prior booking when they have their follow-up medical consultation.

The new COVID-19 Vaccination Stations are in Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Caritas Medical Centre and Prince of Wales Hospital respectively. In addition to the vaccination stations in Queen Mary Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Tuen Mun Hospital which came into service last month, the number of vaccination stations is increased from three to seven.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/15/P2021101500248.htm

2. Latest shipment of Comirnaty vaccine arrives in Hong Kong

​​The latest shipment of about 800 000 doses of the Comirnaty vaccine, manufactured by BioNTech and filled and finished at a plant in Baxter, Germany, arrived in Hong Kong on October 16 as arranged by Fosun Pharma.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/16/P2021101600482.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health (18Oct2021)

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敬啟者：

2019冠狀病毒病及疫苗的最新資訊

1. ​​​四間公立醫院增設新冠疫苗接種站

政府在四間公立醫院增設新冠疫苗接種站，以方便在醫院覆診的病人和訪客，特別是專科門診的病人，在覆診時即時接種復必泰疫苗，無須預約。

新設的新冠疫苗接種站分別位於東區尤德夫人那打素醫院、將軍澳醫院、明愛醫院和威爾斯親王醫院。連同上月啓用的瑪麗醫院、伊利沙伯醫院和屯門醫院接種站，接種站的數目會由三個增加至七個。

詳情可參閱 : https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/15/P2021101500243.htm

2. ​​​最新一批復必泰疫苗付運抵港

復星醫藥已十月十六日將BioNTech製造並於德國Baxter廠房封裝的最新一批約800 000劑復必泰疫苗付運抵港。

詳情可參閱 : https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/16/P2021101600483.htm

更多新冠疫苗資訊：

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk

希望你可以將有關資訊與你的同事、合作者及／或業務伙伴分享，讓他們都能採取合適的預防措施。非常感謝你的支持。

衞生署 (2021年10月18日)

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Dear Sir/Madam,

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government maintains most social distancing measures under Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance

​​The Government gazetted the extension of most social distancing measures for 14 days till October 27 with two new 「vaccine bubble」 arrangements for fitness centres introduced.

Under the condition that the fitness centres have complied with the requirements such as ventilation standards, the maximum number of participants in each sub-group of training groups or classes will be relaxed to 12 persons provided that all staff members have completed a vaccination course and all participants are wearing masks, and customers will be allowed to exercise without wearing a mask if all staff members and users have completed a vaccination course.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/12/P2021101200683.htm

2. 33rd round of compulsory testing for staff members of RCHEs, RCHDs and nursing homes to commence shortly

​​The Government announced on October 13 that the 33rd round of compulsory testing for staff members of residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs), residential care homes for persons with disabilities (RCHDs) and nursing homes would commence shortly.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/13/P2021101300311.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health (15Oct2021)

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敬啟者：

2019冠狀病毒病及疫苗的最新資訊

1. ​​​政府維持《預防及控制疾病條例》下的大部分社交距離措施

政府刊憲延續大部分社交距離措施的有效期14天，直至十月二十七日為止，並就健身中心新增兩項「疫苗氣泡」安排。

如果健身中心符合各項包括通風標準等額外防疫要求，可以在員工已完成接種疫苗及參加者佩戴口罩下放寬訓練小組或課堂的分組人數上限至12人，以及在所有員工及使用者均已完成接種疫苗的情況下，容許顧客在運動時無須佩戴口罩。

詳情可參閱 : https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/12/P2021101200634.htm

2. ​​​第三十三輪安老院、殘疾人士院舍及護養院員工強制檢測即將展開

政府於十月十三日宣布，第三十三輪安老院、殘疾人士院舍及護養院員工強制檢測即將展開。

詳情可參閱 : https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/13/P2021101300306.htm

更多新冠疫苗資訊：

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk

希望你可以將有關資訊與你的同事、合作者及／或業務伙伴分享，讓他們都能採取合適的預防措施。非常感謝你的支持。

衞生署 (2021年10月15日)

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Airport community testing centre to commence service Thursday

​To further assist members of the public working at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) to undergo COVID-19 testing, the Government will set up a new community testing centre (CTC) at the Ground Transportation Lounge, HKIA, on October 14 (Thursday). Members of the public may make online bookings for the testing service at the Airport CTC starting from 7pm, October 11.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/11/P2021101100777.htm

2. Updated COVID-19 vaccination records meet UK travel rules

Following the liaison with the relevant authorities of the United Kingdom (UK) on COVID-19 vaccination records, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) was notified today by the UK authorities that Hong Kong’s updated vaccination records meet the relevant local requirements, and that the UK Government would recognise Hong Kong’s updated vaccination records with effect from 4am on October 11 (UK time) for travel to England.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/08/P2021100800647.htm

3. Government updates list of places of recognised vaccination records

The Government announced that it has concluded discussions with the Government of Sri Lanka to accept vaccination records issued by the country as recognised vaccination records for Hong Kong residents who have stayed in Group A specified places under the mechanism. The Government will also accept the vaccination records issued by non-Group A specified places including Guernsey, Jersey and some British Overseas Territories for boarding flights for Hong Kong by Hong Kong residents who have stayed in Group A specified places. The relevant arrangements will take effect at 0.00am on October 13 (Wednesday).

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/11/P2021101100644.htm

4. Government updates list of places of recognised vaccination records

From 0.00am on October 6, Hong Kong residents who hold vaccination records issued by the relevant authority of South Africa in the prescribed format can board a flight for Hong Kong from Group A specified places. The vaccines administered for the relevant travellers have to be vaccines listed on the Government’s List of COVID-19 Vaccines Recognised for Specified Purposes.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/04/P2021100400607.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health (12Oct2021)

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government adjusts COVID-19 vaccination requirement under social distancing measures according to expert advice

In accordance with the advice of the Advisory Panel on COVID-19 Vaccines, from September 30 onwards, persons aged 12 to 17 who have received one dose of Fosun Pharma/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine (Comirnaty vaccine) at least 14 days ago are deemed to have complied with the requirement of completing the COVID-19 vaccination course under the Prevention and Control of Disease (Requirements and Directions) (Business and Premises) Regulation (Cap. 599F).

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/30/P2021093000840.htm

2. Government adjusts service arrangements of deep throat saliva specimen collection

Since deep throat saliva specimen is no longer accepted for compulsory or regular testing, adjustments are made to the service arrangements of deep throat saliva specimen collection after reviewing the usage and public demand for the testing services.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202110/01/P2021100100497.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health 5.10.2021

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government maintains most social distancing measures under Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance

The Government will gazette the extension of most existing social distancing measures for 14 days till October 13. Meanwhile, the maximum number of persons allowed per banquet in catering businesses adopting Type D Mode of Operation will be relaxed to 240.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/28/P2021092800244.htm

2. Government updates list of places of recognised vaccination records

The Government has concluded discussions with the Governments of Brazil and Russia to accept vaccination records issued by these two countries as recognised vaccination records for Hong Kong residents who have stayed in Group A specified places under the mechanism.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/27/P2021092700724.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health 29/9/2021

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government updates COVID-19 vaccination records

COVID-19 vaccination records issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will have added in them information on the date of birth and sex of the vaccine recipient, as well as the manufacturer of the vaccine the person received, starting from September 29. Members of the public who have completed the COVID-19 vaccination will be able to view and download their updated electronic vaccination record via the iAMSmart mobile app. They can also obtain the updated electronic vaccination record by downloading the latest version of the eHealth mobile app at a later time.

Electronic vaccination records are commonly accepted internationally and in general can be a substitute for paper records. They are also easier to carry and update. The Government appeals to members of the public to download the updated vaccination record via electronic means as far as possible. If individuals with travel plans need to collect their updated record in paper form, starting from September 29, they can bring along the original of their identification documents and proof of travel such as airplane ticket within two weeks of departure and visit one of the specified locations.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/24/P2021092400469.htm

2. COVID-19 Vaccination Stations to be set up at three public hospitals

Three COVID-19 Vaccination Stations will be set up in Queen Mary Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Tuen Mun Hospital starting from September 29 to enable patients visiting the hospital for follow-up appointments and visitors, in particular patients of specialist out-patient clinics, to receive the BioNTech vaccination without prior booking when they have their follow-up medical consultation.

The vaccination stations will open from 10am to 7pm on weekdays except public holidays, with no lunch break. Last vaccination is at 6.30pm. Arrangements will be made for people being vaccinated to have their second dose injection at the same vaccination station or another Community Vaccination Centre. For those who opt for the Sinovac vaccine, the vaccination stations will refer them to a nearby Community Vaccination Centre.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/24/P2021092400294.htm

3. Government suspends quarantine exemption for persons entering Hong Kong from Macao

In light of the latest pandemic situation in Macao, all arrivals in Hong Kong from Macao will not be exempted from compulsory quarantine under the Return2hk Scheme or Come2hk Scheme.

According to the arrangement concerned, persons who have stayed in Macao on the day of arrival in Hong Kong or during the 14 days before that day will not be exempted from compulsory quarantine upon arrival. Instead, they will be subject to 14-day compulsory quarantine at home if they have not been fully vaccinated; and to 7-day compulsory quarantine at home for those who have been fully vaccinated. All arrivals from Macao have to undergo tests at prescribed times under the established requirement. For details of the quarantine and testing requirements for arrivals from Macao, please refer to the Government’s COVID-19 Thematic Website: www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/inbound-travel.html#quarantinemeasures1.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/25/P2021092500632.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health 27/9

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Distribution of same-day tickets at Community Vaccination Centres open to all eligible persons

Starting from September 22, 21 Community Vaccination Centres (CVCs) under the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme will distribute same-day tickets to all eligible persons who want to receive a COVID-19 vaccination so that they can get vaccinated in a CVC at a designated time slot on the day of distribution.

The same-day tickets will be distributed daily from 7.45am on a first-come, first-served basis in September and October. The CVCs will be closed between 1.30pm and 2.30pm daily for cleaning and disinfection, and the last vaccination session will be held from 7pm to 7.30pm.

Starting from November, the same-day tickets will be available for distribution 15 minutes before the CVCs open, and the last vaccination session will be held an hour before they close.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/20/P2021092000338.htm

2. Latest list of places of recognised vaccination records

From 0.00am on September 22, the Government will accept vaccination records issued by Iran as recognised vaccination records for Hong Kong residents who have stayed in Group A specified places under the mechanism. The Government will also accept the vaccination records issued by non-Group A specified places including Chile and New Zealand for boarding flights for Hong Kong by Hong Kong residents who have stayed in Group A specified places.

Meanwhile, the Government announced earlier that it accepts vaccination records recognised under the EU Digital COVID Certificate mechanism as recognised vaccination records required for the purpose of boarding flights for Hong Kong from high-risk Group A specified places. As the EU has recently announced the recognition of the vaccination records issued by Albania, Andorra, Faroe Islands, Israel, Monaco, Morocco and Panama as being equivalent to vaccination records issued by EU member states under the mechanism, the Government will therefore also accept the vaccination records issued by the aforementioned places as recognised vaccination records from 0.00am on September 22.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/20/P2021092000764.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health 21/9

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Scientific Committees under CHP issue consensus interim recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination

The JSC-EAP reviewed the latest scientific evidence and noted that the two currently used COVID-19 vaccines (i.e. Comirnaty and CoronaVac vaccines) are still very effective against severe disease in the majority of the population six months after completion of two doses.

The meeting also deliberated the use of COVID-19 vaccines in children and adolescents. To balance the risk and benefit in the local setting, JSC-EAP recommends persons aged 12 to 17 years to receive one dose of the Comirnaty vaccine, instead of two doses.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/15/P2021091501003.htm

2. Department of Health reminds teenagers on vaccination arrangements with second dose appointment

Myocarditis or pericarditis are known adverse events of the Comirnaty vaccine reported in both overseas and locally, with the majority occurred following the second dose in adolescents. Most affected cases will respond well to treatment and can usually return to their normal daily activities after their symptoms improved. Adolescents and young adults should avoid strenuous exercise for one week after Comirnaty vaccination. They should seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms indicative of myocarditis or pericarditis such as acute and persisting chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations following vaccination.

The JSC-EAP recommends persons aged 12 to 17 years to receive one dose of the Comirnaty vaccine, instead of two doses. Teenagers aged 12 to 17 who have appointments to receive the second dose of the Comirnaty vaccine can opt to cancel the appointment online. For those with special needs who opt to receive the second dose and turn up at the Community Vaccination Centres (CVC) as scheduled, medical personnel at the CVCs will explain the above recommendation and the relevant risk to them and their guardians before they make the appropriate decision.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/15/P2021091500979.htm

3. Update on monitoring COVID-19 vaccination

As at 8pm on September 12, over 8.15 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines had been administered for members of the public. More than 4.34 million people had received at least one dose of vaccine, accounting for 64.4 per cent of the population aged 12 or above. The DH received 5 843 reports of adverse events (0.07 per cent of the total vaccine doses administered). Among the death cases concerning persons who had been vaccinated, including 43 cases with vaccination within 14 days before they passed away (0.0005 per cent of the total vaccine doses administered), none of the death cases was associated with vaccination.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/15/P2021091500728.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health 16/9

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government maintains most social distancing measures under Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance

The Government will gazette the extension of the effective date of most existing social distancing measures for 14 days till September 29. Furthermore, the Government will introduce a new arrangement for fitness centres under 「vaccine bubble」 to relax the distance restriction among participants of training groups or classes of more than four persons.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/14/P2021091400605.htm

2. Arrangements for Come2hk Scheme

Starting from September 15, non-Hong Kong residents coming from Guangdong Province and Macao, upon fulfilment of all the specified conditions under the Come2hk Scheme, can be exempted from compulsory quarantine upon entry into Hong Kong.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/14/P2021091400592.htm

3. Government accepts registration of non-local COVID-19 vaccination records through voluntary declaration

Members of the public will be able to register their non-local vaccination records with the Government through voluntary declaration. The new arrangement will facilitate these persons to carry and view the records in electronic format for their daily use in fulfilling relevant requirements under the local vaccine bubble (such as entering into premises which require proof of vaccination).

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/14/P2021091400572.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health 15/9

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)and vaccines

1. Operation arrangements of Community Vaccination Centres after October

Five CVCs will be closed from November.

The operation of 21 CVCs will be extended to the end of this year. These CVCs will continue to provide the first-dose vaccination services in October and November, and will only provide the second-dose vaccination services in December.

Starting from November 1, the opening hours of the 21 CVCs will be adjusted.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/09/P2021090900301.htm

2. Government updates list of places of recognised vaccination records

From 0.00am on September 15, Hong Kong residents who hold vaccination records issued by the relevant authorities of Bangladesh, Nepal or the United Arab Emirates in the prescribed formats can board a flight for Hong Kong from Group A specified places.

he Government has also concluded discussions with the Government of Singapore on the arrangements regarding the recognition of vaccination records.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/10/P2021091000556.htm

Points to Note for Quarantine for Inbound Travellers: https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/inbound-travel.html

3. The Government opens Penny’s Bay Quarantine Centre for quarantine of foreign domestic helpers

The Government announced that, starting from September 20, a total of 800 units in Phases 1 and 2 of the Penny’s Bay Quarantine Centre (PBQC) on Lantau Island will be open for quarantine of foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) who have been fully vaccinated in Group A specified places upon arrival in Hong Kong.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/10/P2021091000783.htm

4. Update on monitoring COVID-19 vaccination

As at 8pm on September 5, over 7.84 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines had been administered for members of the public. More than 4.24 million people had received at least one dose of vaccine, accounting for 63.0 per cent of the population aged 12 or above. The DH received 5 698 reports of adverse events (0.07 per cent of the total vaccine doses administered). Among the death cases concerning persons who had been vaccinated, including 41 cases with vaccination within 14 days before they passed away (0.0005 per cent of the total vaccine doses administered), none of the death cases was associated with vaccination.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/08/P2021090800704.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health 13/9

 

 

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)and vaccines

1. Government phases out deep throat saliva as recognised specimen for compulsory testing

Risk-based, frequent and accurate virus testing has all along been a key to Hong Kong’s success in the fight against the epidemic. The Government announced that further steps will be taken to replace deep throat saliva specimen by combined nasal and throat swab samples collected by professionals (professional swab sampling) as recognised compulsory testing method except for certain circumstances, with a view to enhancing the effectiveness of COVID-19 testing arrangements.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/07/P2021090700940.htm

2. Government updates list of places of recognised vaccination records

Hong Kong residents who hold vaccination records issued by the relevant authorities of India, Malaysia, Pakistan or Thailand in the prescribed formats can board a flight for Hong Kong from Group A specified places. The Government has also concluded discussions with the Government of Korea on the arrangements regarding the recognition of vaccination records.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/06/P2021090600671.htm

Points to Note for Quarantine for Inbound Travellers: https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/inbound-travel.html

3. Government resumes quarantine exemption for persons returning from both Mainland areas other than Guangdong Province and Macao under Return2hk Scheme

Hong Kong residents staying in Mainland provinces and municipalities other than Guangdong Province, and Macao, upon fulfilment of all specified conditions under the Return2hk Scheme, including: not having stayed in places other than Hong Kong, the Mainland or Macao and any areas that are included in the list of at-risk places temporarily inapplicable under the Return2hk Scheme published on the Return2hk Scheme thematic website, in the past 14 days before arriving in Hong Kong (not including the period where a person has been undergoing compulsory quarantine in the Mainland or Macao under the requirement in that place) could be exempted from the 14-day compulsory quarantine requirement when returning to Hong Kong. However, they must still undergo compulsory testing according to instructions.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/07/P2021090700888.htm

4. Same-day ticket arrangement for COVID-19 vaccination to be expanded to cover target groups

Starting from September 9, 21 Community Vaccination Centres (CVCs) (except those run by private hospitals) under the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme will distribute same-day tickets to the following five target groups so that they can receive vaccination in a CVC at a designated time slot on the day of distribution:
(1) Staff of residential care homes for the elderly, residential care homes for persons with disabilities and nursing homes;
(2) Staff of medical organisations;
(3) Staff of schools, school bus drivers and escorts (commonly known as 「nannies」);
(4) Staff of catering business, bars/pubs; and
(5) Construction site personnel.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202109/07/P2021090700298.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

We would like to solicit your support to disseminate the information to your colleagues, work associates and/or business partners so that they could adopt proper preventive measures. Thank you very much for your support.

Department of Health

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)and vaccines

1. Government maintains most of the social distancing measures under Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance

The global epidemic situation remains severe, and the prevailing Delta mutant strain is highly transmissible. Meanwhile, a downward trend is observed locally in both vaccination and booking for vaccination. The vaccination rate of the elderly is still relatively low. It’s worrying that the elderly will be subject to extremely high risk of getting seriously ill and death if there is a fifth wave of epidemic. In this regard, the Government needs to maintain most of the existing social distancing measures.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/31/P2021083100509.htm

2. Conditional free COVID-19 testing service continues to be provided for targeted groups

The Government will continue to require staff of targeted groups to receive vaccination as soon as possible, while at the same time strengthen the testing arrangements for staff who have yet to complete a vaccination course.

Free COVID-19 testing at community testing centres (CTCs) is provided only to individual eligible persons of targeted groups (mainly those who have yet to complete a COVID-19 vaccination course or are unfit for vaccination because of health reasons), and relevant persons must present valid medical certificates/vaccination records/documents of identity proof for receiving free tests. This requirement will be applicable to all targeted groups (including staff of catering businesses) starting from September. In other words, persons of targeted groups who are not unfit for vaccination because of health reasons will need to pay for the regular testing service.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/31/P2021083100423.htm

3. Government updates list of places of recognised vaccination records

The Government announced the acceptance of vaccination records issued by places including Indonesia, the Philippines and Turkey as recognised vaccination records for the purpose of Hong Kong residents who have stayed in Group A specified places under the mechanism.

For details, refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/30/P2021083000672.htm

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/inbound-travel.html

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Quarantine and testing arrangements for persons arriving at Hong Kong from places in Mainland other than Guangdong Province, Macao, and Taiwan

The Government will from August 9 require all persons who have stayed in places in the Mainland other than Guangdong Province or Macao to present prior to boarding a flight for Hong Kong a negative result proof of a nucleic acid test for COVID-19 which is conducted on the day or within three days prior to the scheduled time of departure. Persons who fail to present the relevant negative test result will not be allowed to board for Hong Kong.

Relevant persons will be tested multiple times during quarantine. In the light of the ravages of mutant virus, the Government will also enhance the testing requirements applicable to persons arriving from the Mainland, Macao and Taiwan, including the addition of compulsory testing on the ninth, 16th, and 19th days of arrival at Hong Kong for persons with exempted or shortened quarantine periods. The newly enhanced compulsory testing requirements are applicable to all persons arriving at Hong Kong on or after August 4 (including persons returning to Hong Kong under Return2hk).

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/06/P2021080500905.htm

2. Government tightens eligibility criteria for free COVID-19 testing for targeted groups at community testing centres

In the face of the threat posed by mutant strains and as a preparation for the fifth wave of epidemic, the Government will continue to require staff of targeted groups to receive vaccination as soon as possible, while at the same time strengthen the testing arrangements for staff who have yet to complete a vaccination course. In view of the protection brought by the vaccination, fully vaccinated staff will in general no longer be required to undergo regular or such frequent testing. Only in very exceptional situations can an individual staff member postpone his or her vaccination, e.g. if he or she is unfit to receive vaccination at the moment because of health reasons, but the staff will be subject to undergo more frequent testing which must be done by using combined nasal and throat swabs.

Starting from August, free COVID-19 testing at community testing centres (CTCs) will only be provided to individual eligible persons of targeted groups (mainly those who have yet to complete a COVID-19 vaccination course or are unfit for vaccination because of health reasons), and the eligibility criteria for free test will also be tightened

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/04/P2021080401030.htm

3. Update on monitoring COVID-19 vaccination

As at 8pm on August 1, close to 5.72 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines had been administered for members of the public. Over 3.25 million people had received at least one dose of vaccine, accounting for 47.9 per cent of the population aged 12 or above. The DH received 4 735 reports of adverse events (0.08 per cent of the total vaccine doses administered). Among the death cases concerning persons who had been vaccinated, including 27 cases with vaccination within 14 days before they passed away (0.0005 per cent of the total vaccine doses administered), none of the death cases was associated with vaccination.

For details, refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/04/P2021080400986.htm

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/04/P2021080400870.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Latest quarantine and testing arrangements for overseas arrivals and forthcoming implementation of self-paid serology antibody testing service at airport

The Government further elaborated on the arrangements applicable to children aged under 12, and strengthen the compulsory testing requirements applicable to persons arriving from low-risk places.

Separately, the self-paid serology antibody testing service will be provided for eligible arrivals from August 18. Relevant fully vaccinated persons arriving at Hong Kong can choose to undergo a self-paid serology antibody test at the airport’s Temporary Specimen Collection Centre during 「test and hold」.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/07/P2021080700596.htm

2. 26 Community Vaccination Centres extend operation for one month

The demand for COVID-19 vaccination has increased recently. Should the vaccination progress be maintained at the current pace or increase, it is likely that 70 per cent of the eligible population will at least have had their first dose of a vaccine by the end of September. In view of the demand for vaccination and the vaccination progress, the Government has decided to extend the operation of CVCs until October 31.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/06/P2021080600389.htm

3. Same-day ticket arrangements for COVID-19 vaccination to be expanded to cover people aged 60 or above

Starting from Wednesday (August 11), same-day tickets will be distributed at 24 Community Vaccination Centres (CVCs) (except those run by private hospitals) under the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme to persons aged 60 or above so that they can receive COVID-19 vaccination in a CVC at a designated timeslot on the day of distribution.

For details, refer to: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202108/09/P2021080900312.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. COVID-19 Vaccination Programme further extends to cover all eligible visitors

At present, there are over 2 000 other visitors who are holding valid travel documents and have to continue to stay in Hong Kong owing to the COVID-19 epidemic. On public health considerations, providing vaccination for these other visitors will help prevent the spread of the virus in the community and thus enhance Hong Kong’s overall anti-epidemic capability.

From July 6, they can bring their travel documents and the landing slips or extension of stay labels (applicable to other visitors with extension of stay) issued by the Immigration Department to any post office (except mobile post offices) during office hours and the staff will assist them in making appointments for completing two doses of vaccination in the Community Vaccination Centres within their limit of stay.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202107/05/P2021070500347.htm

2. Update on monitoring vaccination

As at June 27, the Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunisation had concluded that six death cases had no causal relationship with vaccination, and preliminarily considered that 15 cases were not associated with vaccination. One case was pending assessment. The Expert Committee considered that there is no unusual pattern identified so far, and will continue to closely monitor the relevant situation and collect data for assessment.

Based on statistical analysis, there is no evidence that vaccination increases the risk of death or miscarriage for recipients.

The majority of non-death cases of adverse events received so far are relatively minor cases.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202106/30/P2021063000690.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Persons aged 12 to 15 can make reservations to receive BioNTech vaccine

The Government has lowered the minimum age for receiving the BioNTech vaccine from 16 to 12. Persons aged 12 to 17 are required to bring along a consent form signed by their parents for getting their vaccinations. The consent form can be downloaded from the designated website.

We have to put in place an immune barrier in Hong Kong as soon as possible and the next three months will be critical. We must act fast to receive the first vaccine dose by the end of August to protect ourselves, our families and friends.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202106/10/P2021061000556.htm

2. Scientific Committees update interim recommendations

Scientific Committees under CHP have updated several interim recommendations related to COVID-19 vaccination, including:

•    Members of the public are advised to complete both doses of the series with the same product when possible. In exceptional situations where the vaccine recipient is unable to complete the series with the same type of vaccine (e.g. due to anaphylaxis after the first dose; or if the vaccine is no longer available or accessible), vaccination with another COVID-19 vaccine may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
•    The use of Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine for adolescents aged 12 – 15 is recommended.
•    Any elderlies who have received influenza vaccines before can safely receive COVID-19 vaccines. For the frailest elderlies, the benefit versus risk may have to be carefully weighed.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202106/09/P2021060901025.htm

3. More information and videos in different languages

To facilitate more ethnic minorities to receive the Government’s latest epidemic prevention information, health education materials and videos have been translated into multiple languages. Some videos are also available for download directly. For details, please refer to the attachment.

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

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Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government extends social distancing measures under Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance

A number of local cases with the N501Y mutant strain have been recorded in Hong Kong recently, and the source of infection has yet to be identified. To guard against a rebound of the epidemic situation, it is not appropriate to relax social distancing measures at the moment. The Government will maintain the social distancing measures currently in place from June 10 for a period of 14 days till June 23.

Facing the challenges posed by mutant strains, there is pressing need for receiving vaccination. The Government will continue to adjust the social distancing measures based on the principle of 『vaccine bubble』 taking into account the epidemic development. In addition to the protection received, people who have completed their vaccination course would also continue to be subject to more lenient requirement under the various social distancing measures.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202106/09/P2021060800887.htm

2. Return2hk Scheme – matters relating to list of temporarily inapplicable at-risk places in Mainland

In accordance with the requirements under the Return2hk Scheme, Hong Kong residents who have stayed in any area in the Mainland that is included on the list of at-risk areas on the day of arrival at Hong Kong or during the 14 days before that day will not be exempted from compulsory quarantine under the Return2hk Scheme upon their entry into Hong Kong, and will have to undergo a 14-day compulsory quarantine at home.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202106/06/P2021060600624.htm

More information on COVID-19:

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/index.html

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government extends social distancing measures under Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance

While the recent number of confirmed cases has been maintained at a low level, past experiences tell us that any relaxation of social distancing measures may lead to a rebound in the epidemic situation. The current vaccine take-up rate in Hong Kong is still far below the level that can achieve herd immunity. If, unfortunately, a new wave of the epidemic arrives, we will not be able to build a herd immunity barrier for protection. To guard against a rebound of the epidemic situation, the Government will continue to maintain the social distancing measures currently in place.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/26/P2021052600690.htm

2. Vaccination Programme to cover eligible non-Hong Kong residents in phases

Given public health considerations, the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme will cover Mainland residents who are holders of the Exit-entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao (EEP) and will stay in Hong Kong for a period of time. In addition, the Government is preparing for vaccination of non-refoulement claimants and refugees recognised by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Hong Kong. As for other travellers who continue to stay in Hong Kong owing to the pandemic, the Government will also announce the vaccination arrangement at a suitable juncture.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/25/P2021052500329.htm

3. Update on monitoring COVID-19 vaccination

As at 8pm on May 23, around 1.25 million people had received at least one dose of vaccine. The majority of non-death cases of adverse events received so far are relatively minor cases.

The Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunisation had concluded that eight death cases had no causal relationship with vaccination, and preliminarily considered that 24 cases were not associated with vaccination. Two cases were pending assessment. The Expert Committee considered that there is no unusual pattern identified so far, and will continue to closely monitor the relevant situation and collect data for assessment.

Vaccination is not only the most effective and thorough measure for preventing and controlling COVID-19 but also the key to overcoming the epidemic, resuming normal ways of life and early resumption of cross-boundary travel as early as possible. The Government calls on members of the public not to delay and get vaccinated as soon as possible while current stock lasts and the service capacity is still sufficient at the Community Vaccination Centres (CVCs).

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/26/P2021052600612.htm

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/25/P2021052500953.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines:

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

HKO launches new personalized weather website to enhance weather information services to ethnic minorities.

https://my.weather.gov.hk/personalized-website/traditional_chinese

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government tightens boarding and quarantine requirements for persons arriving at Hong Kong

The Government continues to closely monitor the epidemic situation of various places, the prevalence of new virus variants, vaccination progress, and changes in the volume of cross-boundary passenger traffic, and adjusts the boarding and compulsory quarantine requirements for persons arriving at Hong Kong from relevant places as the situation warrants.

The Government will specify Argentina, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Singapore as high-risk Group B specified places with effect from May 21.

To guard against the importation of COVID-19 cases into Hong Kong, persons arriving at Hong Kong from overseas are subject to testing and compulsory quarantine requirements under a set of stringent inbound prevention and control measures. Depending on the risk levels of places where the persons arriving at Hong Kong depart from and the applicable compulsory quarantine periods, the number of tests these persons subject to during compulsory quarantine will also be increased to two (for 7-day compulsory quarantine period) to four times (for 21-day compulsory quarantine period). Furthermore, persons arriving at Hong Kong from extremely high-risk or very high-risk specified places, or fully vaccinated persons with shortened quarantine periods, will also be required to undergo additional compulsory tests upon the completion of compulsory quarantine.

Moreover, all persons who have stayed in Taiwan on the day of boarding or during the 14 days before that day, will have to present at boarding a negative result proof of a nucleic acid test for COVID-19 conducted within 72 hours before the scheduled time of departure of the aircraft, as well as the confirmation of a room reservation in a designated quarantine hotel in Hong Kong.  On arrival at Hong Kong, they will be subject to the 「test-and-hold」 arrangement at the airport.  Under the relevant requirements, non-Hong Kong residents will be denied entry. Persons who are not fully vaccinated will be subject to a 21-day compulsory quarantine at designated quarantine hotels, with 4 tests to be conducted during the period.  Fully vaccinated persons will be subject to a 14-day compulsory quarantine at designated quarantine hotels, with 3 tests to be conducted during the period, followed by a seven-day self-monitoring period as well as compulsory testing on the 16th and 19th day of arrival at Hong Kong.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/17/P2021051700716.htm

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/16/P2021051600804.htm

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/13/P2021051300907.htm

The Government has categorised the relevant specified places into different groups according to the relevant risk-based boarding and compulsory quarantine requirements:

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/high-risk-places.html

2. Foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) to undergo second round of compulsory testing

The Government thanked the 340 000 FDHs who contributed to the anti-epidemic efforts by complying with the compulsory testing requirement early this month, under which three confirmed cases involving the N501Y mutant strain were detected in a timely manner to cut the latent transmission chain in the community.

All FDHs working in Hong Kong to undergo a COVID-19 nucleic acid test for the second time during the period from May 15 to May 30. FDHs who have received the second dose of COVID-19 vaccination on May 16 or before could be exempted from testing. The Government reminded exempted FDHs to download their electronic vaccination records or save the printouts of their vaccination records to their mobile phones, or bring along the printouts or copies of their vaccination records, so as to prove eligibility for exemption.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/12/P2021051200809.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government extends social distancing measures under Prevention and Control of Disease Ordinance

The implementation of the first phase of measures under the 『vaccine bubble』 is generally in order. To allow the relevant operators of premises and the general public to get used to the relevant measures, the Government will continue to maintain the existing requirements and restrictions applicable to catering business premises and scheduled premises, as well as the requirements for group gatherings and mask wearing for 14 days until May 26. At the same time, the Government has also made slight adjustments to the requirements to fit anti-epidemic needs.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/13/P2021051201043.htm

Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) thematic webpage

www.fehd.gov.hk/english/events/covid19/vaccine_bubble_FP.html

2. Update on monitoring COVID-19 vaccinations

As at 8pm on May 9, about 1.74 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines had been administered for members of the public. The Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunisation perform continuous monitoring of the possible adverse events following administration of COVID-19 vaccines, and provide professional views and suggestions on safety monitoring of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines. The Expert Committee considered that there is no unusual pattern identified so far, and will continue to closely monitor the relevant situation and collect data for assessment. The majority of non-death cases of adverse events received so far are relatively minor cases.

Moreover, based on statistical analysis, there is no evidence that vaccination increases the risk of death for recipients.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/12/P2021051200816.htm

「Report on the Safety Monitoring of COVID-19 Vaccines in Hong Kong」

www.drugoffice.gov.hk/eps/do/en/doc/Safety_Monitoring_of_COVID-19_Vaccines_in_Hong_Kong.pdf).

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. The latest boarding and quarantine arrangements for persons arriving at Hong Kong under 「vaccine bubble」 concept

The Government will adjust the boarding, quarantine and testing arrangements for persons arriving at Hong Kong (including Hong Kong residents returning to Hong Kong) who have completed their COVID-19 vaccination course under the 「vaccine bubble」 concept. Subject to no significant change to the epidemic situation locally and in relevant overseas places, the relevant measures will be implemented on May 12 at 0.00am.

Concise guide to the arrangements

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/pdf/concise_guide_vaccinated_travellers_ENG.pdf

Points to note regarding self-monitoring period for inbound travellers

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/pdf/selfmonitoring_travellers_ENG.pdf

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/07/P2021050700821.htm

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/high-risk-places.html

2. Quarantine requirements for close contacts of locally acquired COVID-19 cases

Taking into account the consensus interim recommendation by the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases and the Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases (collectively the JSC) under the CHP, joined by the Chief Executive’s expert advisory panel (EAP), as well as the latest local situations of the epidemic, the Government decided to adopt a progressive manner to adjust the relevant quarantine requirements for close contacts.

Concise guide to the arrangements

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/pdf/Quarantine_Requirements_ENG.pdf

Points to note regarding self-monitoring period for close contacts after mandatory quarantine at quarantine centre

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/pdf/selfmonitoring_closecontacts_ENG.pdf

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/07/P2021050700771.htm

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/early-testing.html

3. Quarantine arrangements of local COVID-19 cases with mutant strain

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) is reviewing the infection control measures of confirmed cases involving mutant strain.  In view of the epidemiological evidence from contact tracing for N501Y cases, the CHP considers that residents who reside in the same building as confirmed N501Y cases, other than those who reside in the same unit, would not be classified as close contacts and placed under quarantine. Instead, they would be required to have more frequent testing due to the higher transmissibility of N501Y cases and hence an increased chance of transmission by sharing common facilities in the same building.

Concise guide to the arrangements

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/pdf/Quarantine_Arrangements_for_Mutant_Strain_ENG.pdf

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/07/P2021050700770.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. 
   Government further adjusts boarding and quarantine arrangements for persons arriving at Hong Kong

To implement the more targeted risk-based approach on boarding, quarantine, and testing arrangements for persons arriving at Hong Kong under the new direction in fighting the pandemic, the Government announced on April 14 the adjusted grouping of boarding and compulsory quarantine arrangements: places outside China will be categorised under Cap. 599H into the extremely high-risk Group A1 specified places (equivalent to the existing Group A specified places), the newly added very high-risk Group A2 specified places, as well as the existing high-risk Group B specified places, the medium-risk Group C specified places, and the low-risk Group D specified places.

Considering that the epidemic situation is still unstable in the existing extremely high-risk places, i.e. India, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Brazil, and South Africa, the existing restrictions under Cap. 599H will continue.

On the other hand, having considered the stabilising local epidemic situation and the relatively satisfactory vaccination rate in Ireland and the UK, the Government  has lifted the ban for persons who have stayed in Ireland and the United Kingdom (UK) on boarding for Hong Kong on May 7, to allow flights to resume from those places and for Hong Kong residents there to board for flights for Hong Kong, while these relevant persons would subject to the most stringent compulsory quarantine and testing arrangements upon arrival at Hong Kong.

Based on the 「vaccine bubble」 concept, the Government is planning to suitably shorten the compulsory quarantine period, based on risk levels, for persons arriving at Hong Kong who have not stayed in extremely high-risk and very high-risk places, and who have been fully vaccinated.  The implementation date and details of the relevant measures will be announced separately.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/04/P2021050400899.htm

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/high-risk-places.html

2. Over 1 million people receive first dose of COVID-19 vaccine

The Government announced that the number of people who have received their first vaccine dose under the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme has exceeded 1 million. The figure accounts for around 15 per cent of the population aged 16 or above and eligible to get vaccinated through the Vaccination Programme, which has been running since February 26.

The Department of Health (DH) has put in place a pharmacovigilance system for COVID-19 immunisations, including receiving reports of Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs) related to the COVID-19 vaccines used in Hong Kong from healthcare professionals and pharmaceutical industries, and setting up the Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunisation (Expert Committee) to provide independent assessments on the potential causal link between AEFIs and COVID-19 vaccinations.

As of May 2, 2021, a total of 11,785 persons were infected with COVID-19, and 210 died of the disease in Hong Kong. Separately, there were about 1,491,900 doses of COVID-19 vaccines administered and a total of 2,402 AEFI reports (0.16 per cent of all doses administered) were reported. A total of 16 death reports (0.001 per cent of all doses administered) with a vaccination history within 14 days were received in the same period. The Expert Committee already concluded that four cases had no causal relationship with COVID-19 vaccinations, and the rest were preliminarily considered not associated with COVID-19 vaccinations.

The Government called on those who have not yet been vaccinated to do so as early as possible. A high vaccination rate can lead Hong Kong to resume economic and livelihood activities as soon as possible. In view of the threat posed by mutant strains, it is imperative for us to get vaccinated to protect ourselves and others.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/05/P2021050500854.htm

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202105/06/P2021050600584.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines

https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/

Updated information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccines

1. Government to relax social distancing measures under 「vaccine bubble」

The Government has gazetted directions and specifications under the Prevention and Control of Disease (Requirements and Directions) (Business and Premises) Regulation (Cap. 599F), the Prevention and Control of Disease (Prohibition on Group Gathering) Regulation (Cap. 599G) and the Prevention and Control of Disease (Wearing of Mask) Regulation (Cap. 599I) to relax social distancing measures with conditions with 「vaccine bubble」 as the basis. These directions and specifications take effect from 0.00am on April 29, for a period of 14 days till May 12.

1. Except for bars or pubs which are subject to other requirements, all catering business must operate according to one or more of the following operating mode(s). Among them, Types A and B Mode of Operation are existing arrangements, while Types C and D Mode of Operation are introduced under the 「vaccine bubble」.

Arrangements for Catering Business, Bars/Pubs and five Scheduled Premises under the “Vaccine Bubble”

https://gia.info.gov.hk/general/202104/28/P2021042800868_366077_1_1619624036686.pdf

Summary of latest measures on catering business and scheduled premises:

https://gia.info.gov.hk/general/202104/28/P2021042800868_366078_1_1619624036680.pdf

2. Unless exempted, the prohibition on group gatherings of more than four persons in public places will continue during the specified period. The requirement is also applicable to group gatherings in catering business and scheduled premises regulated under Cap. 599F in which the relevant requirements or restrictions are not complied with.

Relaxation Arrangements for Group Gathering Restrictions under the “Vaccine Bubble”:

https://gia.info.gov.hk/general/202104/28/P2021042800868_366072_1_1619624036695.pdf

3. The mandatory mask-wearing requirement under Cap. 599I will be extended during the specified period.

The Government reminds the public that a staff member or a customer who makes false declarations or provides false information under the measures may be subject to a fixed penalty of $5,000.

Relevant specified forms and template of medical certificate:

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/cap599FG_forms.html

To help catering premises and scheduled premises operators, as well as the general public, understand the operational details of the 「vaccine bubble」, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has launched a thematic webpage as a one-stop portal to provide relevant information and working tools:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202104/29/P2021042900690.htm

www.fehd.gov.hk/english/events/covid19/vaccine_bubble_FP.html

Depending on the epidemic development and the implementation of the first phase of measures under the 『vaccine bubble』, the Government will review and adjust the details of the measures and consider further relaxation of restrictions in respect of the operation of restaurants and other premises under the second phase.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202104/28/P2021042800868.htm

2. The Government continues to ensure that the authorised vaccines satisfy the criteria of safety, efficacy and quality

The Advisory Panel on COVID-19 Vaccines convened a meeting on 29 April 2021 to conduct continuous benefit-risk analysis of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines. After reviewing all the latest available clinical and safety data related, the Advisory Panel still considered that the benefits outweighed the risks. There was no need to recommend changes regarding the use of the vaccine.

For details, please refer to:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202104/29/P2021042900881.htm

More information on COVID-19 vaccines:

www.covidvaccine.gov.hk

3. Government further tightens place-specific flight suspension mechanism and suspends passenger flights from Nepal

In view of the continually unstable global epidemic situation, the Government will adjust the place-specific flight suspension mechanism. A new criterion will also be introduced to run in parallel. If a total of 10 or more passengers were confirmed positive by any tests (including tests conducted during quarantine) with the N501Y mutant strain or relevant virus mutation within a seven-day period, the flight suspension mechanism would also be triggered. At the same time, as a measure to manage the flight resumption arrangements more cautiously under the mechanism, the Government will conduct risk assessments every two weeks for comprehensive reviews of relevant factors such as the epidemic situation of the relevant places, vaccination rate, and the prevalence of new virus variants, etc., before determining whether it was appropriate to remove the flight suspension. Due to the need to review the epidemic situation of the place concerned, the flight suspension mechanism will not be lifted automatically.

Under the tightened place-specific flight suspension mechanism, the Government will extend the measure to prohibit all passenger flights from India, Pakistan and the Philippines from landing in Hong Kong, and starting from 00.00am on May 1, prohibit all passenger flights from Nepal from landing in Hong Kong.

For details:

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202104/29/P2021042900946.htm

https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/high-risk-places.html

 

【COVID-19 Vaccines: Top tips replay in Punjabi 】

Don’t miss the chance to watch Centre for Health Promotion’s online webinar to know more about COVID-19 vaccines in Punjabi with doctors online.

Dr Narindar Pal Singh Gill from Tuen Mun Hospital will tell you more and clarify your doubts.

Watch NOW at: https://youtu.be/Eyo-9saR418

The online webinar, co-organised by the Centre for Health Protection, Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple and the Zubin Foundation, was held on April 14, 2021, with more than 40 participants.

For more information on COVID-19 vaccines, please visit thematic website
https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/

https://ne-np.facebook.com/CentreforHealthProtection/posts/covid-19-vaccines-top-tips-replay-in-punjabi-dont-miss-the-chance-to-watch-again/4544108158938399/

Vaccination for prevention of COVID-19

The Government is offering COVID-19 vaccines free of charge for all Hong Kong residents. Eligible persons aged 16 or above can make reservations through the online booking system for receiving vaccines at one of the many community vaccination centres (CVCs) and public clinics, or make appointments for vaccinations with private doctors. It is expected that CVCs will operate until the end of September 2021. People wishing to receive the BioNTech vaccine must make an appointment to receive the first dose by the end of August in order to complete the vaccination of two doses by the end of September for better protection from the vaccine. For Sinovac vaccination services, it will be continued  through designated private and public clinics. The Government will also continue sourcing safe and effective vaccines from other vaccine manufacturers or drug companies.

In general, the side effects of vaccines are mild and temporary. The Government continues to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccines allow your body to better fight against the disease, while other preventive measures, such as personal hygiene and wearing masks properly will further reduce the risk of spreading the disease in the community. Visit thematic website for more information: www.covidvaccine.gov.hk