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The Department of Health of Hong Kong started the implementation of this year's Influenza Vaccination Program for around 55,000 residents in more than 700 elderly homes.
The program, scheduled to be finished within two weeks, aims to boost immunity of senior citizens in residential homes, especially those having chronic health problems, and protecting them against severe complications of influenza infection.
They were urged to take full advantage of this free program, as outbreaks are more likely to occur in such enclosed settings and the residents have a higher chance of developing complications such as pneumonia.
However, a spokesman for the department said the vaccination is not 100 percent effective, advising senior citizens to cultivate a healthy living habit like spending time doing exercise and resting and eating on a balanced diet.
(Xinhua News Agency November 11, 2002)
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