The flu jab and the pneumococcal jab are the combination older adults in Hong Kong most often get together. The good news: they can be given on the same day.
Same day: safe and effective
Studies show that when the flu and pneumococcal vaccines are given on the same day, the immune responses are comparable to giving them separately and don't weaken each other; the safety profile is good too, with solid data in adults aged 60 and over.
Different sites
The two vaccines go at different sites (for example, one in each arm), which makes any local reaction easier to tell apart and is more comfortable.
Why this combo is so common
The high-risk groups for flu and pneumococcal infection overlap heavily — both are older adults and people with chronic conditions. The two are also linked: pneumococcal pneumonia often follows a bout of flu. Vaccinating at the same time adds protection against two related diseases in one go, which is especially practical for older adults.
Before the jab
Tell your doctor you'd like both the flu and pneumococcal vaccines. They'll confirm same-day vaccination suits your age, vaccination history and health, and arrange the sites. If you've never had a pneumococcal vaccine, your doctor will also explain which type and how many doses you need.