Existing vaccines can, to a certain extent, block a health threat posed by the new California flu strain, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow told reporters. He added current health and welfare policies are unlikely to be affected by the anticipated change in leadership.

At a briefing after the opening ceremony of Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Yu Mak Yuen Integrated Service Centre, Dr Chow said the public need not worry about the California influenza pandemic labelled the H3N2 strain.

The greater concern is the local avian influenza, or bird flu, that is rampant in the region, particularly in Vietnam, labelled the H5N1 strain.

When asked to comment on Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa's resignation, Dr Chow stressed his priority is to ensure the continuity of the Government's work in health and welfare.

The study of public hospital fee adjustments will continue, adding current plans and policies will not be affected much by any change in leadership.