As Hong Kong marks five years since the first recorded Covid-19 case, the city continues to assess its pandemic response and readiness for future health crises. Among those still grappling with the aftereffects of the pandemic is Eunice To, a 26-year-old resident whose ongoing health struggles have led her to question the impact of Covid-19 vaccinations on her condition.
While the pandemic may be officially over, To’s battle with severe eczema and a host of newly discovered food allergies persists. Although she lacks conclusive evidence linking her symptoms to the vaccines, To believes her health issues began shortly after receiving the jabs. She recalls experiencing debilitating skin flare-ups and identifying 40 different food allergies post-vaccination.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding whether the vaccines are to blame, To does not regret her decision to get vaccinated, as it played a key role in securing her job in the welfare sector. However, her experience has made her cautious about future vaccine recommendations. “The next time I’m told to take a vaccine, I’ll be far more cautious,” she said.
To’s experience highlights a broader issue of vaccine hesitancy that surfaced in Hong Kong during the early days of the pandemic, when many residents resisted government calls to get vaccinated. Experts argue that clearer health communication and greater efforts to raise awareness will be crucial in managing public health responses during any future global pandemics.
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