Hong Kong expert warns of rapid flu deterioration in children this season
Dr. Kwan Yat-wah, former president of the Asian Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases, reports many flu patients this season are deteriorating quickly, with some children experiencing low blood pressure, diffuse bleeding and encephalitis. He says research is underway into whether viral gene chan
A leading Hong Kong infectious disease expert has warned that many influenza patients this season are deteriorating more rapidly than usual, with some children developing severe complications including low blood pressure, diffuse bleeding and encephalitis.
Dr. Kwan Yat-wah, former president and executive committee member of the Asian Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases, said the cause of the worrying trend remains unknown. He said researchers are investigating whether a change in the virus's genes could be responsible for the more aggressive symptoms.
Dr. Kwan noted that the current rate of influenza A infection is high. He urged parents to watch for "warning signs of severe illness" in children, including persistent high fever, vomiting, abdominal pain and chest pain. If such symptoms appear, he said, families should seek medical attention promptly so a doctor can prescribe antiviral medication.
The expert explained that during the early stage of flu infection, the virus replicates and is shed in large quantities. The first 48 hours after onset of symptoms represent a critical window for antiviral treatment. Dr. Kwan highlighted that the second-generation flu drug baloxavir marboxil requires only a single dose and can clear the virus within about 24 hours. Because the drug targets viral replication, earlier intervention can more effectively control the viral load, he said.
Dr. Kwan also recommended that institutions such as elderly care homes, child care centres, residential facilities and schools consider using second-generation flu drugs. In densely populated settings, he said, improving treatment outcomes and using antivirals to reduce the amount of virus in the environment could help lower community transmission.
