The influenza A/H1N1 vaccination program will proceed as planned as Hong Kong's batch of Sanofi Pasteur vaccine meets potency specifications, Secretary for Food and Health of Hong Kong York Chow said on Wednesday.

Chow said a recalled vaccine batch in the US was manufactured in a facility different to the one that makes Hong Kong vaccines. The recalled lot consists of pre-filled syringes for pediatric use, while the Hong Kong batch consists of multi-dose vials.

The program will be launched on December 21 for two million people from five target groups including chronic patients and pregnant women, children aged six months to six years, seniors aged 65 and above, healthcare workers, and workers in the pig trade.

"The recalled products in the US are different from those ordered by Hong Kong, although they are produced by the same company. Those we have ordered come from France and have complied entirely with the standard as required," he said.

The Department of Health of Hong Kong has scrutinized the batch certificates and quality-control reports of the vaccine lot received in Hong Kong. It will continue to liaise with the manufacturer to obtain further information and updates.

(Xinhua News Agency December 17, 2009)