Gov-funded Programme

1. When does the 2025–26 Government Subsidized Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program start?
The government-subsidized free influenza vaccination program (free flu shot) began on September 22, 2025.

2. How is influenza different from the common cold, and what is the purpose of getting vaccinated?
Influenza symptoms are typically more severe than those of a common cold and can even lead to death. Getting a flu vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications. It can also reduce hospitalizations and deaths caused by the flu.
The Department of Health recommends that everyone receive a seasonal influenza vaccine every year to protect personal health.
The winter flu season usually begins early in the year, and antibodies take about two weeks to develop after vaccination. Therefore, citizens are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible for protection.
Except for individuals with weakened immunity or medical contraindications, everyone aged six months or above is advised to get vaccinated early — especially people with chronic health conditions and the elderly, for whom influenza infection can be life-threatening.

3. Who is eligible for free, government-subsidized influenza vaccination?
Individuals who have registered with the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHealth) and meet the following criteria^:

• Persons aged 50 or above

• Children aged six months to under 18 years, or full-time Hong Kong students aged 18 or above

• Pregnant women

• Persons with intellectual disabilities

• Recipients of Social Welfare Department Disability Allowance

• Recipients of Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) whose standard amount category is “100% disabled” or “requiring constant attendance”

• Persons aged 18–49 with chronic illnesses

^New eligibility criteria for subsidies under the 2025–26 program.

4. How can I participate in the government-subsidized seasonal influenza vaccination program?
Human Health is one of the government-authorized service providers. Eligible Hong Kong residents can visit any Human Health Medical Centre to receive the free influenza vaccination, making it easier for the public to access government-subsidized healthcare services.

Please refer to the “Find Us and Booking” button at the top right corner of this webpage for details of each medical centre.

5. How do I register and make an appointment for the influenza vaccination?
Eligible persons can visit any Human Health Medical Centre nearby to register on the spot and receive the free flu shot without an appointment.
You may also fill in the pre-registration form via this link to arrange your vaccination appointment.

6. If I am not eligible for the government subsidy, how can I get vaccinated at my own expense?
Anyone can get the influenza vaccine by self-payment. You can purchase and schedule appointments through the Human Health online store, starting from HK$170 per person, and you may also arrange vaccinations for your family and friends.

7. Want to learn more about the government-subsidized influenza vaccination program?
For detailed information about the subsidy scheme, please refer to the Centre for Health Protection website:
https://www.chp.gov.hk/tc/features/108978.html
You may also consult your family doctor for professional advice.