What vaccines do people with diabetes or heart disease need?

Last reviewed: 2026-06-08

Quick answer

People with chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease have a higher risk of serious complications from flu, pneumococcal disease and COVID-19, so these three vaccines matter most for them. The Hong Kong government programmes list people with chronic illness as a subsidised group for free or subsidised seasonal flu and pneumococcal vaccination, and COVID-19 vaccination covers relevant high-risk people. The specifics are a discussion to have with a doctor.

Chronic conditions weaken the body's ability to fight infection and make complications worse, so these vaccines matter more than for the general population.

Seasonal flu vaccine

People with chronic illness are more prone to serious complications from flu, such as pneumonia and worsening of their existing condition. A yearly flu vaccine is a subsidised item under the Hong Kong government programmes, and people with diabetes, heart disease and other chronic conditions can get it free or subsidised.

Pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumococcus can cause pneumonia and invasive infection, and people with chronic illness are at higher risk. The government programme subsidises pneumococcal vaccination for eligible high-risk people. Which vaccine and what schedule depend on your age and health, as assessed by a doctor.

COVID-19 vaccine

People with chronic illness or weakened immunity have a higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19, are a recommended priority group, and can have a booster under the programme.

Before vaccination

Recommendations differ by condition and how well it's controlled. Which vaccines suit you, in what order, and whether you qualify for a subsidy are points to confirm with your family doctor or specialist.

Answer six short questions to see which vaccines are worth discussing with your GP, and why.

Based on your age, health, and travel plans, using HK Department of Health and CDC guidance. A ranked list of vaccines, with the reason each one applies to you.

Rule-based

The recommendations follow HK Department of Health and US CDC guidance, and you can see how each one was reached.

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Explained

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