Debated in Parliament on 6 Nov 2025.
Dr Hamid Razak asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health given the earlier-than-usual surge in influenza cases this year, what proactive measures is the Ministry taking with primary care providers to (i) expand vaccination and antiviral capacity, (ii) protect vulnerable groups such as seniors and those with chronic illnesses and (iii) manage the potential strain on hospitals during this extended influenza season.
As addressed in the written reply to the Parliamentary Question raised by Mr Gabriel Lam at the 5 November 2025 Parliament Sitting, the increase in influenza activity since August 2025 is not unexpected. [Please refer to "Factors Contributing to Early Seasonal Surge of Influenza Cases and Prevention Strategies", Official Report, 5 November 2025, Vol 96, Issue 10, Written Answers to Questions section.]
The Ministry of Health (MOH) works closely with general practitioners and polyclinics to incorporate influenza vaccination into routine preventive care, with subsidy coverage for eligible individuals. In particular, providers have been advised to encourage vulnerable groups, including children, seniors and individuals with medical conditions, to get influenza vaccination. MOH also works with nursing homes to offer influenza vaccination to their residents.
Our public hospitals manage high patient volumes daily. During surges, they tap on alternative care models to manage any strain if they emerge, such as the Mobile Inpatient Care at Home (MIC@Home) for suitable patients, and the Transitional Care Facilities (TCFs) for medically stable patients.
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