Government pandemic adviser David Hui said on Saturday that the drop in summer flu cases has been faster than expected, but people should still get jabbed for the upcoming winter flu season.

Speaking to reporters after attending a radio programme, Hui said the summer influenza outbreak may not be a large one, as people are wearing masks and paying more attention to personal hygiene.

The Chinese University professor said the peak of the flu outbreak this winter will occur from January to March of next year.

“During the winter peak period, the situation is usually more severe than during the summer peak period. However, there's no need to worry because the vaccine subsidy scheme will be launched on September 28,” Hui said.

“Besides, outreach vaccinations in schools and care homes will begin on October 5. As long as the vaccination rate is high, the number of severe cases can be reduced,” he added.