A Government spokesman today (April 11) said that, concerning the antivirals, oseltamivir (Tamiflu), for treatment of patients infected with influenza A and B viruses, the Government has been stockpiling antivirals in accordance with the preparedness plan and monitoring the supply as well as proactively contacting the drug distributor to ensure that the overall supply of such antivirals in Hong Kong remains stable.

     The spokesman pointed out that the Department of Health (DH) has been stockpiling antivirals in accordance with the Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. The Government has stockpiled enough doses (about 11 million doses) of antivirals according to the Plan, and about 90 per cent of which are oseltamivir, including both capsule and oral suspension. The DH has also been monitoring the supply of antivirals in the market.

     Statistics from the local market revealed that the supply of Tamiflu capsule is currently stable while the supply of Tamiflu oral suspension is slightly tight temporarily. In this connection, the drug distributor is re-allocating the oral suspension for supply to the local market. At the same time, the DH is also proactively co-ordinating relevant distributors so as to re-allocate the stockpiled antivirals (including oral suspension) by the Government to the private healthcare market when necessary to ensure adequate drug supply.

     ýÿThe spokesman also reminded members of the public that Hong Kong has entered the influenza season, and local seasonal influenza activity is expected to stay at a higher level within a short period of time. The spokesman urged different sectors of the community for heightened vigilance and appropriate actions to prevent transmission of influenza, and seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) is one of the effective means to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications, as well as reduce influenza-related hospitalisation and death. All persons aged six months or above, except those with known contraindications, are recommended to receive SIV for personal protection. Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and chronic disease patients, should receive SIV as early as possible. Strict personal, hand and environmental hygiene should also be observed at all times to prevent influenza and other respiratory illnesses.

Ends/Tuesday, April 11, 2023
Issued at HKT 20:21

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