By fairagency on 18th Mar 2021
Can domestic helpers get Covid-19 vaccines?
Yes. Migrant domestic helpers are included in the Hong Kong government COVID-19 Vaccination scheme. The vaccine is available free-of-charge and a choice of two vaccination options are available at the moment: Sinovac and BioNTech. These options require 2 dosages, meaning a second shot will need to be taken at another date.
How can domestic helpers get the Covid-19 vaccination?
Domestic helpers can make a booking via the government vaccination scheme website: https://www.covidvaccine.gov.hk/en/
Where can domestic helpers find more information on the Covid-19 vaccine?
On the vaccination scheme website:
Other resources:
- A general practitioner or pharmacist’s opinion may also be consulted.
- Health Talks by Dr. Manio has done an informative live chat for Filipino workers in Tagalog.:
https://www.facebook.com/dr.mike.manio/videos/186270569934338 - Article by OT&P: COVID-19 Vaccinations in 11 Easy Questions
- Article by AD Medlink: COVID-19 Vaccines in Hong Kong: Options, Safety & Costs (UPDATED)
Can I ask my domestic helper to get the vaccination as part of her job?
No. It is the individual’s decision whether or not to receive a Covid-19 vaccine. We encourage employers and domestic helpers to have open conversations and with an understanding of each other’s concerns.
Domestic helpers may not have access to balanced and easy-to-understand information on the Covid-19 vaccines because of language barriers. Employers can help their domestic helpers keep up-to-date with the latest information so they are better equipped to make a decision.
A household hygiene policy may also be useful, such as frequent handwashing, physical, sanitising after returning indoors, keeping good ventilation at home.
What should a domestic helper do if she experiences any possible side-effects after taking the vaccine?
Like all vaccines, side effects are a possibility – mild side-effects (such as aches, mild fever) are common. Before taking a Covid-19 vaccine, make sure to declare any health conditions and consult a professional medical opinion if necessary.
In the unlikely event of severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately and report to the Department of Health.
Who is responsible for medical costs in the event of side-effects?
According to the Labour Department’s Standard Employment Contract guidelines, employers must provide free medical treatment and emergency dental treatment for domestic helpers. It doesn’t matter if the injuries or sickness are related to work. This is why it’s strongly encouraged that you take out an insurance policy with full medical and hospitalization coverage. Read more about domestic helper insurance.
The Hong Kong government has set up an Indemnity Fund for Adverse Events Following Immunization with COVID-19 Vaccines (AEFI Fund) to provide financial support to eligible individuals. Should a domestic helper be in such a situation, they will be eligible for this financial assistance.
We do our best to keep our articles up-to-date. The most up to date version will be on our website: https://www.fairagency.org/answers/faqs-on-the-covid-19-vaccine-programme-for-domestic-helpers/ Please double-check with the relevant organisations directly for the latest.
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