Letter of requesting vaccination services

Letter from Tsuen Wan residents to the District Office
1918
Collection of Tung Wah Museum
By the early 20th century, the smallpox vaccine had become a widely adopted means to inoculate individuals against the deadly disease. Historical records show that the Tung Wah Hospital had offered free smallpox vaccination services since its establishment. The government held Tung Wah in high regard for its smallpox vaccination services. In February 1918, the government received a letter from Tsuen Wan residents requesting vaccination services for children in the area. The Secretary for Chinese Affairs passed the letter onto Tung Wah so that arrangements could be made for vaccinators to visit the area.