H.K. Vaccine Rollout Hampered by Reliance on Chinese Shots

Hong Kong has expanded vaccine eligibility to healthy adults over 30 due to low uptake among priority groups. Despite securing ample vaccines, public hesitancy remains high, partly due to adverse reactions reported with Sinovac. The initial rollout faced challenges, including delayed approval and lack of data transparency. While Sinovac was prioritized, concerns arose over its safety, especially for the elderly. The situation now allows younger adults to easily access vaccines, but achieving herd immunity may take longer.

Why did Hong Kong expand vaccine eligibility to healthy adults over 30?

• To use up excess vaccine supply

• To prioritize younger adults over older ones

• To follow international vaccination guidelines

• To increase vaccine uptake due to low participation from priority groups

How did the Hong Kong government initially respond to the low vaccine uptake?

• By importing different vaccine brands

• By reducing the cost of vaccines

• By expanding eligibility to more age groups

• By making vaccination mandatory

What was one of the main reasons for the initial vaccine hesitancy in Hong Kong?

• Lack of vaccine availability

• High cost of vaccines

• Adverse reactions reported from the Sinovac vaccine

• Mandatory vaccination policies

What was a significant issue with the Sinovac vaccine that affected public confidence?

• Lack of comprehensive clinical trial data

• It was only available to healthcare workers

• It required multiple doses

• It was more expensive than other vaccines

What was a consequence of the rushed approval process for the Sinovac vaccine?

• Higher vaccination rates among the elderly

• Increased public trust

• Delayed herd immunity achievement

• More vaccine options available