Which pneumococcal vaccine does the Hong Kong government subsidise for older adults?

Last reviewed: 2026-06-08

Quick answer

Hong Kong's pneumococcal subsidy offers older adults two vaccines: the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (23vPPV) and the 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15). Adults aged 65 or above with no high-risk conditions get one dose of 23vPPV. Those with specified high-risk conditions get one dose of PCV15 first, then a dose of 23vPPV at least a year later. Since August 2024, PCV15 has replaced the 13-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV13) as the conjugate vaccine used in the programme. PCV13 and the 20-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV20) are not on the subsidy list.

Hong Kong's pneumococcal subsidy covers two vaccines, with the schedule depending on whether an older adult has high-risk conditions.

The two subsidised vaccines

The programme funds the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (23vPPV) and the 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15).

Older adults with no high-risk conditions

Adults aged 65 or above with no specified high-risk conditions get a single dose of 23vPPV.

Older adults with high-risk conditions

Those with specified high-risk conditions (such as a weakened immune system, a history of invasive pneumococcal disease, a cochlear implant or a cerebrospinal fluid leak) get one dose of PCV15 first, then a dose of 23vPPV at least a year later. Confirm the exact schedule with your doctor.

PCV13 has been replaced

Since August 2024, PCV15 has replaced PCV13 as the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine used in the government programme. PCV13 is no longer on the current subsidy list.

Which vaccines aren't subsidised

PCV13 and the 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) aren't on the government subsidy list. Getting either means paying the full cost at a private doctor or clinic.

The schedule and high-risk definitions can change. Before getting vaccinated, confirm with your family doctor or the Centre for Health Protection which category you fall into and the current programme details.

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