To reduce the risk of influenza infection, Hong Kong Hospital Authority outpatient clinics will start providing free flu vaccinations to 250,000 eligible people from today.
The program also covers poultry workers and people involved in poultry culling operations, according to a press release. Those eligible for the free flu shots also include pediatric outpatients with chronic diseases, those on long-term aspirin therapy, those 65 or above with chronic diseases and those being monitored in public clinics.
The city will give 50,000 more free injections this year than 2004.
Medical experts say the flu season is usually at its peak between January and March in Hong Kong.
Protection provided by vaccination develops about two weeks after getting a flu shot and may last up to one year. Therefore, the best timing for flu shots is in November and December.
Meantime, Hong Kong's housing department will strictly punish feeding feral birds in common areas at public rental housing estates. And it will step up cleaning of the public areas.
Deputy Director of Housing Lau Kai-hung said yesterday that wild bird feeders will be fined HK$1,500 (US$194) and five penalty points under the Marking Scheme for Tenancy Enforcement. No warning will be given, the government said.
Migratory and feral birds can transmit influenza.
Noting that droppings from wild pigeons may spread harmful germs, Lau said avoiding feeding them is the best way to minimize their congregation.
A package of specific measures has been introduced to preserve environmental hygiene in public rental housing estates and markets.