Details of Vaccination Subsidy Scheme - Pneumococcal Vaccination
Details of Vaccination Subsidy Scheme - Pneumococcal Vaccination
2023-11-22
The Vaccination Subsidy Scheme for pneumococcal vaccination runs throughout the year.
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) presents in the upper respiratory tracts even in healthy carriers. It is the causative agent of pneumococcal infections. Although pneumococcal infection generally causes mild illnesses such as sinus or middle ear infections, it may also cause severe or even life-threatening invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPD) such as bacteremic pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis.
The outcomes for IPD are usually more severe among young children and elderly. The treatment of pneumococcal infections usually involves the use of antibiotic(s). However, there is a problem of increasing resistance of the bacterium to antibiotics, which makes prevention of pneumococcal infections important. Pneumococcal vaccination is one of the most effective means of preventing pneumococcal diseases.
To receive government subsidy, the eligible elderly must be Hong Kong residents of age 65 years or above (count by year of birth). The healthcare professionals will recommend whether the elderly need to receive pneumococcal vaccination and which type of pneumococcal vaccine(s) to be received according to their previous pneumococcal vaccination and whether they are at high-risk conditions.
If you are recommended to receive vaccination but are not the above-mentioned eligible persons, you may consult your family doctor and consider vaccination at your own expense for personal protection.
History of invasive pneumococcal disease, cerebrospinal fluid leakage or cochlear implant
Chronic cardiovascular (except hypertension without complication), lung, liver or kidney diseases
Metabolic diseases including diabetes mellitus or obesity (Body Mass Index 30 or above)
Immunocompromised states related to weakened immune system due to conditions such as asplenia, HIV/AIDS or cancer/steroid treatment
Chronic neurological conditions that can compromise respiratory functions, the handling of respiratory secretions, increase the risk for aspiration or those who lack the ability to take care of themselves
Under the VSS 2023/24, the subsidy level is $400 per dose for 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, the subsidy level is $800 per dose for 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, and the subsidy level is $800 per dose for 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.
The doctor may impose extra fees, some doctors may not charge extra fees. Please click here to search for list of private doctors and clinics providing vaccination service and click here for "How to search Participating Doctors Enrolled in Vaccination Subsidy Scheme"
Are there any high-risk conditions for elderly of age 65 years or above? Please click the button below for more information.
Have the elderly received pneumococcal vaccination?
Different factors such as age and clinical condition may affect the risk of pneumococcal disease. Patients with high-risk conditions should discuss with their attending doctors on the most appropriate vaccination regimen.
Enquiry
Programme Management and Vaccination Division Tel: 2125 2125 Fax: 2713 9576 E-mail: vacs@dh.gov.hk Office Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00-17:30 hours. No service on Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday.
