Education Corner

Seasonal Influenza Vaccination What is Influenza? Influenza (also known as the flu) is an acute infectious disease caused by viruses from the influenza virus family. It spreads worldwide and is transmitted through droplets.Common symptoms include fatigue, sudden fever, runny nose, cough, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat. Severe cases can lead to respiratory failure or even death. Influenza viruses are divided into three main types: A, B, and C.Types A and B account for most infections. Major outbreaks are usually linked to type A viruses, while type B epidemics occur less frequently at several-year intervals.Type C infections are typically milder and rarely cause epidemics. Influenza viruses constantly mutate.Each year, the World Health Organization (WHO) reviews and recommends the composition of the next season’s vaccine. Because flu seasons differ between hemispheres, recommendations are issued at different times: For the Northern Hemisphere: Announced in February/March to ensure updated vaccines are available before the winter flu season (late in the same year or early the next year). For the Southern Hemisphere: Announced in September of the preceding year to prepare vaccines for the following winter (around June/July).   Why is it Important to Get a Seasonal Influenza Vaccine? Influenza cases occur year-round in Hong Kong, but are most common from January to March/April and July to August.People with weaker immune systems and the elderly are at greater risk of severe illness and complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or encephalopathy, which may result in death. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications, reducing hospital admissions and deaths.It can also help lower the risk of severe illness and hospitalization for those who might contract both influenza and COVID-19 at the same time.   When Should I Get the Seasonal Influenza Vaccine? It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop protective antibodies.To ensure adequate protection, vaccination should be done at least two weeks before the flu season begins—typically in January in Hong Kong.However, vaccination is still beneficial even after the season has started.   What Are the Possible Side Effects of the Inactivated Influenza Vaccine? The inactivated flu vaccine is very safe.Common mild effects include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some people may experience fever, muscle aches, or fatigue 6–12 hours after vaccination, which usually subsides within two days.If persistent fever or discomfort occurs, consult a doctor. Rare serious allergic reactions—such as hives, tongue or throat swelling, or breathing difficulty—require immediate medical attention.Other rare adverse events include Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) (about 1–2 cases per million vaccinations) and severe allergic reactions (about 9 cases per 10 million doses distributed).However, there is no proven causal link between vaccination and these events.Research shows that the risk of developing GBS after influenza infection (17.20 cases per million infections) is much higher than after vaccination (1.03 cases per million vaccinations).[The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 2013 Sep; 13(9): 769–76]   Who Should Not Receive the Inactivated Influenza Vaccine? Anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine component or after a previous flu vaccination should not receive it. People with mild egg allergies can safely receive the vaccine at primary healthcare facilities. Those with severe egg allergies should be vaccinated under professional supervision in medical settings equipped to handle allergic emergencies. Although the vaccine contains trace amounts of ovalbumin (egg protein), the purification process reduces the content to very low levels, making it safe for most people with egg sensitivity. Patients with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants should consult a doctor before vaccination.If you have a fever on the vaccination day, it is best to wait until recovery before receiving the vaccine.   Do I Need to Get the Flu Vaccine Every Year? Yes.Because influenza virus strains change frequently, vaccine formulations are updated annually based on circulating strains.Immunity from last season’s vaccination declines over time and may no longer provide sufficient protection the following year.For example, the 2021–22 seasonal vaccine components differed from those of 2020–21.   Can Pneumococcal and Influenza Vaccines Be Given Together? Yes.Pneumococcal and seasonal influenza vaccines can be given during the same visit.If using the inactivated influenza vaccine, separate syringes and injection sites should be used.   Can the Influenza Vaccine Be Given Together with the COVID-19 Vaccine? No—the vaccines should be administered at least 14 days apart.This applies to both BioNTech and Sinovac (CoronaVac) COVID-19 vaccines.

Regular Check-ups to Prevent HPV Infection Is HPV a Virus That Only Affects Women? According to the Centre for Health Protection, studies show that up to 75% of sexually active men and women will be infected with HPV (human papillomavirus) at some point in their lives.While condoms can reduce the risk of transmission, they cannot fully cover all genital skin, meaning unprotected areas may still become infected.HPV can remain dormant for years, and the absence of symptoms does not mean you are free from infection.Getting the HPV vaccine early can help prevent infection by the human papillomavirus. However, as the vaccine cannot protect against all HPV strains, regular cervical screening is still necessary to prevent cervical cancer.   What Health Problems Can HPV Cause? Most HPV infections do not cause any symptoms, but in some cases, they can lead to disease.HPV transmitted through skin-to-skin contact can cause common warts on the hands and feet.Sexually transmitted HPV infects the genital and anal areas, causing genital warts (commonly known as “cauliflower warts”).High-risk HPV strains can lead to cancer over time, including cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, vaginal cancer, penile cancer, and anal cancer.   How Can I Know If I Have HPV? There are several tests to check for abnormalities in cervical cells.The most common method is the Pap smear test.Another option is the HPV DNA genotyping test, which can detect the presence of specific high-risk HPV types even before cellular changes occur.   The First Line of Defense Against Cervical Cancer Although Pap smear screening helps detect cell abnormalities, HPV infection can persist silently for years before progressing to cervical cancer.During this stage, Pap tests may not always identify early changes.Early screening using HPV DNA testing can detect the virus itself before it causes abnormal cell growth, offering a more effective way to prevent cervical cancer.   What Can HPV DNA Screening Detect? If HPV is detected:Consult a doctor for further assessment, such as colposcopy, to check for the presence of precancerous cervical cells. If HPV is not detected:This indicates no HPV infection was found in your cervical cells.Nonetheless, you should continue to undergo regular cervical screenings to ensure ongoing protection against cervical cancer.   Do I Need to Get an HPV DNA Test Before Vaccination? Testing before vaccination is not mandatory.HPV DNA testing helps identify early cellular changes caused by existing infection, while the HPV vaccine aims to prevent infection from specific HPV types you haven’t yet contracted.However, for individuals who are already sexually active, a preliminary HPV DNA test can be useful to determine if the cervix is healthy and whether any early treatment is required.

The third wave of the novel coronavirus pandemic has emerged, with confirmed cases in consecutive days reaching double digits, appearing across different areas and groups, which calls for high attention. Experts have analyzed that a mutated strain with faster reproduction and stronger transmissibility may have appeared in Hong Kong, increasing community infection risks, so vigilance is essential. Coronavirus symptoms may be very mild or even absent. Anyone feeling unwell, even with very mild symptoms, should seek medical advice promptly for early diagnosis and follow-up. Human Health Medical continues to provide COVID-19 testing at its general clinics in two forms: Nucleic acid testing for individuals with mild symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, fever, fatigue, dry cough, and difficulty breathing. Testing available for anyone needing tests for travel or health certification. Cost: HKD 350 for mild symptomatic testing; HKD 950 for general or certification testing. This includes doctor consultation and testing fees but excludes medication or other diagnostics or treatments. Sample submission before noon (collection times may vary).Report turnaround time: at least 5 working days (350 HKD) or about 1-2 working days (950 HKD). Process: Clients pay at general clinics, get doctor assessment, and receive sample containers; remote video consultation also available. Clients self-submit samples at designated collection points. FAQs Q1: Who can use the $350 COVID-19 testing service? What qualifies as an eligible person?A: Anyone with any mild symptoms or discomfort such as nasal congestion, headache, fever, fatigue, dry cough, or difficulty breathing, who wants to rule out infection, can use this service. If not, consider other services suitable for any person. *Note: This service is not applicable for Health Code or other travel-related applications.   Q2: Can any clinic provide the test without appointment?A: No appointment is needed. You can proceed to the clinic directly. For clinic locations and hours, please check our network website:https://www.humanhealth.com.hk/zh-hant/networks/search/   Q3: Where are the designated sample collection points?A: Different areas or services have different collection points. Staff will assist with information when you go.   Q4: Can the test be done on the same day at the clinic, or do I collect the sample kit and submit it the next day? How long for results?A: After doctor assessment, you get a sample container at the clinic. You collect saliva the next morning and submit it to a designated collection point. For same-day sample collection and testing, avoid eating or rinsing mouth 60 minutes before sampling. Bring the sample back to the collection point the same day.$350 test results require at least 5 working days. For faster reports, consider other services.   Q5: What does the $350 COVID-19 test include?A: It includes doctor consultation and assessment. Additional fees for medication or other diagnostics and treatment may apply. Check with the clinic.*Note: This service does not apply for Health Code or other travel-related applications.   Q6: What if the test is positive?A: If the patient meets the Department of Health’s criteria for “Severe New Infectious Respiratory Disease,” the Health Protection Center will be notified immediately, and procedures will be followed. Patients should be hospitalized promptly for treatment and early recovery.   Q7: Why undergo COVID-19 testing?A: The test helps anyone with mild symptoms quickly determine if infected.   Q8: Can children take this test?A: Yes. Children who can follow instructions to produce deep throat saliva can take the test. If saliva collection is not possible, stool testing can be considered.   Q9: When will testing be linked to the Health Code application?A: The government will announce the application process, eligibility, and documentation. Please stay tuned.   Q10: Can this service be claimed through insurance?A: Insurance policies vary. A receipt will be issued for customers to inquire with their insurer about claim eligibility.    

Health Code - Exemption from Mandatory Quarantine As the pandemic comes under control, following Macau, Hong Kong is about to adopt the "Health Code" system. The Hong Kong Food and Health Bureau announced that the "Hong Kong Health Code" preparation is nearly complete. Once launched, Hong Kong residents only need to hold a valid virus test certificate to be exempt from quarantine when traveling between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau; however, the related tests must be self-paid.   How to obtain a qualified test certificate?Anyone holding a valid COVID-19 nucleic acid test certificate can be exempted from quarantine when traveling between the three regions. Currently, eight private hospitals and labs in Hong Kong are recognized for nucleic acid test results accepted in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau. The government will announce further details soon. Those wishing to obtain the Health Code can get a referral from a doctor to undergo virus testing. If the result is negative, the authorized institution will upload the result and the person's information to the Health Code system. Applicants can apply online using the lab record. Once the personal Health Code is obtained, it is valid for seven days for quarantine-free travel in the three regions. Human Health Medical provides COVID-19 testing services through the government's authorized lab - Hong Kong Molecular Pathology Diagnostic Centre (HKMPDC). Details will be announced soon.   The Hong Kong Health Code replaces quarantine with virus test certification and coordinates with similar documents in Guangdong and Macau. Hong Kong residents will no longer face up to 28 days of mandatory quarantine when traveling between the three regions. The "Hong Kong Kang Code" applies only in Hong Kong. To be exempt from quarantine in Mainland China or Macau, additional applications for the "Guangdong Kang Code" and "Macau Kang Code" are necessary. After completing the nucleic acid test at an authorized institution, the results are uploaded to the Department of Health website. Passing the test allows applicants to obtain their "Hong Kong Kang Code" from the website and subsequently apply for other regional Health Codes by completing an online form with personal information.   Does the Hong Kong Kang Code have privacy concerns?The "Hong Kong Kang Code" only records nucleic acid test results, and information is not shared among the three regions. In contrast, Guangdong's "Guangdong Kang Code," developed via WeChat, includes multiple functions and is frequently used when entering/exiting locations, updating activity logs with personal health data such as body temperature and tracking travel history each scan. The Hong Kong version only requires showing the code at border checkpoints.   Does Macau have a Health Code?Macau's Health Bureau introduced the "Macau Health Code" with three color statuses—green, yellow, and red—assigned based on health history, contact, and travel history. Residents with a red code are sent to medical institutions for evaluation and possibly hospitalization; non-residents with a red code are denied entry. Yellow code holders are advised to self-manage health. Once red-code individuals complete a 14-day medical observation quarantine or treatment, the system automatically lifts the red status. Macau residents or foreign workers entering must present a green Macau Health Code with a valid nucleic acid test, generated or updated within six hours before entry via the Gongbei Port, exempting them from manual health quarantine checks and allowing direct access to automated border control.

This Father’s Day, Show Love Through Action Dad works hard every day to provide the best life for us so that we can grow up healthy and happy.Now that we’ve become independent, we hope he can enjoy good health, a carefree mind, and a fulfilling life.This Father’s Day, why not turn your care into action by arranging a comprehensive health check-up for your dad?Not sure which tests to choose? Here are some helpful tips:   What Can a Lipid Profile Detect? Since “the three highs” (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar) are chronic diseases that often go unnoticed, a lipid profile is an effective way to screen for potential issues early.   Is a Prostate Exam Necessary? Many men start experiencing prostate problems in middle age, such as pain or discomfort during urination.Because these are sensitive issues, many suffer in silence.Regular prostate check-ups can effectively detect prostate health concerns early, allowing timely treatment.   Should Dad Get the Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine? Vaccination can effectively prevent shingles and reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain that may follow infection).It is recommended that individuals aged 50 and above receive the shingles vaccine to lower their risk.   Should the Heart Be Checked Even Without Symptoms? As we age, the risk of arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, and heart disease increases.Heart examinations such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram can assess the overall health and function of the heart.   Snoring—A Sign to Consider a Sleep Apnea Test? A sleep apnea screening can effectively detect sleep apnea early to prevent chronic oxygen deprivation to the brain.Early diagnosis also helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease—and may prevent sudden death during sleep.   Why Is a Colonoscopy Important? A colonoscopy is an effective test for detecting colon polyps or early signs of colorectal cancer.Individuals aged 50–75 (born between 1944 and 1970) can participate in the government’s Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme for free testing.   The above information is intended for general reference and does not replace your doctor’s advice.If you have any questions, please consult your family physician.We accept no responsibility for any omission or error in this content.

Show Your Love This Mother’s Day with Care and Health Many people want to show love to their mothers on this special day.Aside from gifts, flowers, or taking her to a nice meal, why not show you care by paying attention to her health?Health is priceless—and safeguarding your mother’s wellbeing is the most meaningful gift you can give. In addition to common concerns like high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, here’s a list of other important health checks to help you turn love into action this Mother’s Day.   Should She Get a Mammogram or Breast Ultrasound Every Year? Breast cancer is the leading cancer among women in Hong Kong, and its incidence is rising with younger cases being reported.Self-examination may sometimes detect lumps, but by the time symptoms appear, the cancer might have already reached Stage 2.Women aged 40 and above should have a clinical breast exam and ultrasound scan every year, plus a mammogram every two years.A breast ultrasound distinguishes cysts from solid tumors, while a mammogram can detect microcalcifications that may indicate early cancer.Both tests complement each other for more accurate screening.   What Is a DEXA Bone Density Test? Does “Anti-resorptive Injection” Help Maintain Bone Health? Women begin losing bone mass around age 35, and this accelerates after menopause as estrogen levels drop sharply.Osteoporosis produces no obvious symptoms until fractures occur—commonly in the hip, spine, or forearm. Even minor impacts may result in fractures, and spinal collapse can cause back pain, stooping, or height loss. Some handheld bone scanners use ultrasound to measure heel bone density, but these are for screening only, not diagnosis.The standard method is the DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan. Besides calcium, vitamin D, sunlight exposure, and regular exercise, research has identified a naturally occurring protein called osteoprotegerin (OPG) that protects bone mass.The “anti-resorptive injection” mimics OPG to inhibit bone-resorbing cells, helping slow down bone loss and manage osteoporosis.   Should Elderly Mothers Still Get Cervical Screening and the HPV Vaccine? Cervical cancer, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), often has no symptoms in its early stages.By the time vaginal bleeding or abnormal discharge occurs, the disease may already be advanced.Fortunately, cervical cancer is preventable.Even women who are sexually active can gain protection from the HPV vaccine, and regular Pap smears are essential for detecting precancerous cell changes early.   Why Is a Colonoscopy Important? Colorectal cancer has become one of Hong Kong’s fastest-rising cancers and is now the second leading cause of cancer death.While the risk is higher in men, many women are also affected.Polyps in the colon typically take 10 years or more to develop into cancer, and early-stage cases often have no symptoms. The U.S. health authorities and Hong Kong’s Department of Health recommend regular colorectal cancer screening to detect and remove polyps early.If you or your family members are aged 50–75 (born between 1944 and 1970), you may be eligible for subsidized testing under the Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme.   Should Moms Get Vaccinated Against Shingles? Shingles (Herpes Zoster) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox.After recovery from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissues and can reactivate as immunity declines with age.This causes painful rashes or blisters, usually on one side of the body, particularly on the back or waist. Shingles pain can last for up to four weeks and severely affect daily life.If the infection reaches the eyes or ears, it may cause blindness or hearing loss.Those aged over 50 or who have previously had chickenpox have a higher risk—so vaccinating early can prevent suffering later.   Can Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections Relieve Joint Pain? The knee joint bears much of the body’s weight and is prone to wear and tear over time.As cartilage gradually deteriorates with age, symptoms like pain climbing stairs, stiffness, or soreness during weather changes may occur—signs of osteoarthritis. Research shows that hyaluronic acid injections can reduce joint friction, preserve cartilage, and slow degeneration.The procedure is simple: the doctor disinfects the joint area, inserts a fine needle into the space, and injects the hyaluronic acid—usually completed in 15 seconds. Patients can stand and walk immediately afterward. However, HA treatment is temporary—each injection lasts 3 to 6 months and is mainly effective for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.For severe degeneration, joint replacement surgery may be recommended.   This information is for general health awareness and should not replace your doctor’s professional advice.If you have questions, please consult your family physician.No responsibility will be assumed for any omissions or errors in the content.