Hong Kong health authorities are considering providing flu shots to family doctors participating in an immunization program to ensure stable supply to the private market, a senior official said.

Health Undersecretary Libby Lee Ha-yun said Friday that authorities were aware of private doctors’ supply problems in previous years. Hong Kong authorities launched their vaccination program ahead of the expected winter wave of infections.

“We know that there has been some instability in the supply of flu vaccines in the private market,” Lee told lawmakers.

“As for the question of whether our strategic purchasing center should take into account the quantities needed by the private sector when purchasing flu vaccines, this is a subject that we are currently discussing.

“I hope the supply will be more stable in the coming year.”

Hong Kong currently has two main flu vaccination programs. The government vaccination program offers free doses to eligible groups, such as children and people aged 50 or over, at public clinics and hospitals, as well as outreach programs in nursing homes.