The Department of Health has invited staff of essential services and emergency operations in the civil service to get influenza vaccinations.

It is expected that about 45,000 staff will be involved, and adequate stocks of the vaccine have been reserved.

Letters of invitation are being issued through the Security Bureau to Heads of Department in the disciplinary forces, the Auxiliary Medical Service and Civil Aid Service for distribution. A similar invitation will also be sent to other departments.

From Wednesday, staff can attend one of the 64 general outpatient clinics under the Hospital Authority to receive a flu shot.

The vaccine used as recommended by the World Health Organisation does not prevent avian influenza, but it can help prevent common flu infections.

It is effective, well tolerated and safe, and the decision to receive the vaccination is entirely voluntary.

In case a series of public health control measures and emergency operations are required, it is important the civil service maintains a healthy workforce, capable of being called out at times of urgent need, the department said.