While the number of local cases of transmission of COVID-19 has been low recently, the threat of outbreaks still remains. Life in Hong Kong is slowly returning to normal, but the group restrictions will remain until the community is protected. Full-scale community events, and less-restricted travel across the border to the Mainland and internationally, can also only take place once the community is protected.
The Government’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme offers the best chance for returning to a normality. Organizations across Hong Kong are offering various schemes and incentives to their staff to promote getting vaccinated including on-site vaccinations, bonus annual leave, lucky draws and cash bonuses.
At the Institute, we have agreed a new policy in early May offering Institute staff vaccination leave to be used the day, or the day following, they receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Maintaining a safe and healthy environment at work is always a top priority for us and we hope that our staff will play their part in keeping the community safe.
The accounting profession is well-regarded by society. It is up to us to lead the way in being vaccinated, and promoting the vaccination programme to our families, friends and colleagues. Consider what you can do as an individual to play your part in society, as we will only end this pandemic by taking care of ourselves and protecting society.
If you are in a position of responsibility within your organization we encourage you to introduce a policy to support your employees’ uptake of the vaccination.
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