GUANGDONG Province is set to administer COVID-19 vaccines to foreigners in the province subject to local age eligibility restrictions, following the principle of voluntary participation, informed consent and assumption of personal responsibility for risks.

Authorities in Shenzhen, however, are yet to make arrangements for foreign nationals, as well as Hong Kong and Macao residents, working and living in the city to receive vaccine shots, according to Shenzhen’s health commission.

China’s domestic inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines will be used, and two doses are required. Foreign nationals who are covered by the local health insurance program can be vaccinated for free, enjoying the same policy as insured Chinese citizens, and those not covered will be charged 100 yuan (US$15) per dose, according to the Foreign Affairs Office of the Guangdong Provincial Government.

Foreign nationals who wish to be vaccinated can make an appointment through the WeChat service platform “粤健通” (yuejiantong). Expats should present their passports or valid residence permits at the vaccination site during their scheduled appointments.

Please notice that the schedule of vaccination varies from cities to cities.

Before vaccination, expats should sign both a form of informed consent and a statement of bearing personal responsibility for all risks associated with the vaccination.

Expats are also advised to take necessary precautions and inform health-care workers of their health condition to help decide on vaccine eligibility. Those who show any adverse reaction 14 days after the vaccination must go to the hospital. (SD News)