Child dies in Hong Kong as flu season enters fifth month
A child has died from severe influenza, the third such death this year. Health officials urge vaccination as flu activity remains above baseline. 29 severe paediatric cases have been recorded this season.
A child previously reported as a severe influenza case has died, becoming the third paediatric death from influenza in Hong Kong this year, the Centre for Health Protection announced on 13 November.
The territory has been in a flu season since late June, now lasting more than four months. While overall influenza activity has shown signs of declining in recent weeks, it remains above the baseline level, according to the latest surveillance data.
This season has recorded 29 severe cases among children. Of these, 22 have been discharged after recovery, two are in stable condition, two are in critical condition, and three have died.
Dr Leung Chit-yin, Director of the Centre for Health Protection, reminded the public that Hong Kong is still in the flu season. He noted that data from the previous season showed that unvaccinated children were about five times more likely to suffer severe complications or death from influenza compared with those who received the seasonal flu vaccine.
The centre urged all individuals aged six months or older, except those with known contraindications, to get vaccinated promptly if they have not yet done so. This year's seasonal influenza vaccination programme began about two months ago, and vaccine supplies in both public and private healthcare sectors are adequate.
Eligible persons can receive free or subsidised flu jabs at about 270 public service points, including 110 designated clinics under the Department of Health, 76 family medicine clinics and 38 public hospitals under the Hospital Authority, and 45 district health centres and service points under the Primary Health Care Agency. More than 1,900 private doctors are participating in the Vaccine Subsidy Scheme, offering services at over 3,200 locations across the territory.
Dr Leung urged strict personal and environmental hygiene. High-risk individuals, including children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions or weakened immunity, should wear surgical masks on public transport or in crowded places. He warned that a child's condition can deteriorate rapidly, and parents should seek immediate emergency care if symptoms such as rapid breathing, wheezing, blue lips, chest pain, confusion, persistent fever or convulsions appear.
