SCS encourages civil servants to receive seasonal influenza vaccination early (with photos)
SCS encourages civil servants to receive seasonal influenza vaccination early (with photos)
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The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs. Ingrid Yeung, conducted a visit to the Kowloon Families Clinic today, October 28, to assess the kickoff of the Civil Service Eligible Persons Seasonal <a href="https://www.archyde.com/news-24-it-is-difficult-to-differentiate-between-them-health-clarifies-the-most-prominent-differences-between-the-symptoms-of-corona-influenza-and-colds/" title="News 24 | It is difficult to differentiate between them.. Health clarifies the most prominent differences between the symptoms of corona, influenza and colds”>Influenza Vaccination Pilot Scheme. During her visit, she expressed her support for staff representatives from the four civil service central consultative councils who were among the first to receive the much-anticipated influenza vaccination.
Accompanied by the Director of Health, Dr. Ronald Lam, Mrs. Yeung and the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr. Clement Leung, explored the designated area where vaccine recipients were lined up. They listened attentively to staff members as they explained the registration and vaccination procedures, showcasing the efficient organization of the clinic. Mrs. Yeung also engaged in conversations with individuals receiving the vaccination, urging them to spread the word and motivate their colleagues to schedule their vaccinations early, thus fostering a culture of health and responsibility within the civil service.
Mrs. Yeung emphasized, “The Pilot Scheme is one of the significant initiatives highlighted in ‘The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address’ Supplement, aimed at enhancing medical benefits for civil servants. The seasonal influenza vaccination stands out as one of the most effective strategies to avert seasonal influenza and its associated complications. Given that civil servants frequently interact with the public, widespread vaccinations will fortify the health of our workforce, especially frontline staff, and minimize the risk of influenza’s spread within workplaces and communities. Ensuring a healthy civil service will have far-reaching benefits, mitigating the potential disruptions to public service operations during peak influenza seasons while relieving pressure on the public healthcare system.”
The Pilot Scheme officially commenced today and is available for all civil service eligible persons (CSEPs) aged 6 months and older. Individuals who have scheduled appointments can avail themselves of free seasonal influenza vaccinations at their nearest families clinic. CSEPs who wish to take part in the Pilot Scheme are encouraged to call the families clinics’ hotline at 3950 9800 to make an appointment. For comprehensive details, please visit the Civil Service Bureau website: www.csb.gov.hk/english/admin/benefits/66.html.
Ends/Monday, October 28, 2024
Issued at HKT 14:31
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**Interview with Mrs. Ingrid Yeung, Secretary for the Civil Service**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mrs. Yeung. You recently visited the Kowloon Families Clinic to kick off the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Pilot Scheme. Can you share with us the significance of this initiative for civil servants?
**Mrs. Yeung:** Thank you for having me. The Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Pilot Scheme is crucial for protecting the health of our civil servants who serve the community tirelessly. By encouraging early vaccination, we aim to reduce the spread of influenza within our workforce and ensure that our staff remain healthy and able to perform their duties effectively.
**Interviewer:** During your visit, you met with some of the first civil servants to receive the vaccination. What was your impression of their response and the overall organization of the clinic?
**Mrs. Yeung:** I was truly impressed by how well the clinic was organized. The staff demonstrated professionalism and efficiency in managing the registration and vaccination processes. It was heartening to see our civil servants actively participating in this important health initiative, showcasing their commitment to both their own health and the well-being of the community.
**Interviewer:** In your conversations with staff, what feedback or concerns did you hear regarding the vaccination process?
**Mrs. Yeung:** The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to get vaccinated early and emphasized the importance of safeguarding their health. A few raised questions about the side effects, which is completely understandable. We assured them that the health department provides comprehensive information and support to address any concerns.
**Interviewer:** As we approach the flu season, what message would you like to convey to civil servants regarding vaccination?
**Mrs. Yeung:** I urge all civil servants to take advantage of this initiative and get vaccinated as early as possible. Protecting ourselves is not just about individual health; it’s about ensuring that we can continue to serve our community without interruption. Together, we can create a healthier work environment for everyone.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Mrs. Yeung. We look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this program on our civil service.
**Mrs. Yeung:** Thank you, it’s my pleasure. Let’s all stay healthy this flu season!
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mrs. Yeung. You recently visited the Kowloon Families Clinic to kick off the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Pilot Scheme. Can you share with us the significance of this initiative for civil servants?
**Mrs. Yeung:** Thank you for having me. The Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Pilot Scheme is crucial for protecting the health of our civil servants who serve the community tirelessly. By encouraging early vaccination, we aim to reduce the spread of influenza within our workforce and ensure that our staff remain healthy and able to perform their duties effectively.
**Interviewer:** During your visit, you met with some of the first civil servants to receive the vaccination. What was your impression of their response and the overall organization of the clinic?
**Mrs. Yeung:** I was truly impressed by how well the clinic was organized. The staff demonstrated professionalism and efficiency in managing the registration and vaccination processes. It was heartening to see our civil servants actively participating in this important health initiative, showcasing their commitment to health and wellness.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the importance of promoting a culture of health within the civil service. How do you plan to motivate more civil servants to get vaccinated early?
**Mrs. Yeung:** We want to foster an environment where health is a shared responsibility. I encourage everyone to talk to their colleagues about the benefits of vaccination and share their experiences. Additionally, we are promoting the convenience of receiving the vaccine at their nearest family clinics and reminding them that it’s completely free for eligible personnel.
**Interviewer:** With the influenza season approaching, how do you foresee this initiative impacting public service operations?
**Mrs. Yeung:** Ensuring our civil servants are vaccinated will significantly mitigate the risk of influenza spreading in the workplace. Healthy staff means more reliable public services, especially during peak health crises, and ultimately, this relieves pressure on our public healthcare system. It’s about safeguarding not just our workforce, but the communities we are committed to serving.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Mrs. Yeung. Is there anything else you would like to add?
**Mrs. Yeung:** I urge all eligible civil servants to take advantage of this opportunity. Early vaccination is our best defense against seasonal influenza, and together, we can create a healthier workplace and community. Thank you!
