Gov-funded Programme

1. What is pneumococcus, and why should you get the pneumococcal vaccine?
   Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is commonly found in the upper respiratory tract and is the pathogen that causes pneumococcal infections. Even healthy individuals can carry the bacteria. High-risk groups include young children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses. Once infected with invasive pneumococcal disease, the condition can become very serious.
   According to the Centre for Health Protection, the number of deaths caused by pneumonia in Hong Kong has been rising almost every year, reaching 11,399 deaths in 2024 — making pneumonia the leading fatal disease after cancer. Pneumococcal infection can cause severe illnesses such as otitis media, pneumonia, meningitis, bacteremia, and sepsis. Therefore, the Department of Health recommends that high-risk individuals schedule their pneumococcal vaccination early to protect themselves from infection. Those eligible under the government subsidy program are especially encouraged to get the “pneumonia shot” as soon as possible.

2. Who is eligible for free pneumococcal vaccination under the government subsidy program?
Eligible individuals can receive free pneumococcal vaccination as follows:

• Hong Kong residents aged 65 or above (by year of birth)

  • Without high-risk conditions* and have never received pneumococcal vaccination: eligible for one subsidized dose of the 23-valent vaccine

  • With high-risk conditions* and have never received any pneumococcal vaccine: eligible for one subsidized dose of the 15-valent vaccine, followed by one subsidized dose of the 23-valent vaccine one year later

*For details, please consult our staff or your family doctor.

3. How can I participate in the government-subsidized pneumococcal vaccination program?
Human Health is one of the government-recognized service providers. Eligible Hong Kong residents can receive free pneumococcal vaccination at any Human Health Medical Centre, making it easier for the public to access government-subsidized healthcare services.
For details of each medical centre, please refer to the “Find Us and Booking” button at the top right corner of this webpage.

4. How many doses are needed, and which type should I get? If I was vaccinated before, do I need another shot?
Eligible individuals who have never received a pneumococcal vaccine and are not in a high-risk group can get one free dose of the 23-valent vaccine.
High-risk individuals who have never been vaccinated may receive one free dose of the 15-valent vaccine, followed by a free 23-valent vaccination one year later.
Those who received a pneumococcal vaccine more than one year ago may also receive a free dose of the other vaccine type. Individuals who have already received two doses of pneumococcal vaccines do not need further vaccination.

*Refer to the latest official guidelines for details: https://www.chp.gov.hk/tc/features/108124.html

Healthcare professionals will assess your vaccination history and risk level to recommend the appropriate vaccine.

5. If I am not eligible for government subsidy, how can I get the pneumococcal vaccine?
If you are not an eligible person, you can consult your family doctor and then purchase and book a vaccination through the Human Health Online Store. You may also arrange vaccination for your family members.

6. Want to learn more?
For details of the vaccine subsidy program, you can use the “Search Doctor / Service” function at the top right corner of this website to find and contact a nearby Human Health General Practice Centre.
You may also refer to the Centre for Health Protection’s official website: https://www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/17980.html