DH investigates case of severe paediatric influenza A infection
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 15) investigating a severe paediatric influenza A infection case. The CHP urged the public to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
The case involves a 9-month-old boy with good past health. Starting from July 13, his general condition deteriorated, with decreased activity and oral intake. He developed a fever and cough on July 14 and was taken to a clinic. His condition worsened in the afternoon on the same day. He developed shortness of breath, followed by a loss of consciousness and sudden cardiac arrest. He was then sent to the Accident and Emergency Department of Tuen Mun Hospital. The patient's heartbeat was restored after active resuscitation and he was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit for treatment. His respiratory specimen collected by the hospital on July 14 tested positive for influenza A virus. His clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with severe pneumonia and shock. He remains hospitalised and is in critical condition.
The CHP's preliminary investigation revealed that the boy had not received the 2025/26 seasonal influenza vaccination. His household contacts remain asymptomatic. The CHP will continue to investigate the case.
Since Hong Kong entered the influenza season in late June, the influenza activity has continued to increase. Based on historical surveillance data, the CHP expects the influenza activity to rise steadily for some time after the start of the influenza season before reaching its peak and is expected to increase further in the coming weeks.
The CHP reminded members of the public, especially children, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses, to seek medical advice promptly for early treatment if they present with fever and respiratory symptoms. As the health condition of children with influenza can deteriorate rapidly, parents must pay close attention to their condition, and visit an accident and emergency department immediately if the child's condition deteriorates with symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, blue lips, chest pain, confusion, a persistent fever or convulsions.
In addition, the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent contracting influenza and other respiratory illnesses. Given that Hong Kong is currently in the influenza season and the COVID-19 activity has significantly increased, high-risk individuals should wear surgical masks when staying in crowded places; the general public is also advised to wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. People with respiratory symptoms, even if mild, should wear a surgical mask and seek medical advice promptly. They should also consider whether to attend work or school.
Members of the public may refer to the CHP'sCOVID-19 & Flu Express,Seasonal Influenza Webpage,COVID-19 Vaccination Programme Webpage, andVaccination Schemes Webpage, for the latest information.
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