DH investigates case of severe paediatric influenza A infection
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (August 3) 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 7-year-old boy with good past health. He developed a cough and runny nose on July 27, and a fever on August 1. His condition deteriorated today, with decreased responsiveness. He was taken to the Accident and Emergency Department of Princess Margaret Hospital and was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit for treatment. His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A (H3) virus. His clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with shock and encephalopathy. He remains hospitalised and is in critical condition.
The CHP's preliminary investigation revealed that the boy had received the 2025/26 seasonal influenza vaccination. He had no travel history during the incubation period. One of his household contacts recently developed upper respiratory symptoms and tested positive for influenza virus via a rapid antigen test. However, the household contact's condition was mild and did not require hospitalisation. The household contact has since recovered. The CHP will continue to investigate the case.
"Hong Kong entered the influenza season in late June. The latest surveillance data revealed that the percentage of respiratory specimens testing positive for seasonal influenza viruses was 10.65 per cent and the influenza admission rate in public hospitals was 0.67 cases per 10 000 population last week. Both indicators increased last week. The predominant influenza viruses detected were influenza A (H3) (48 per cent), followed by influenza A (H1) (41 per cent) and influenza B (11 per cent). We expect the level of influenza activity to remain high in the coming weeks," said the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui.
"The World Health Organization has already announced its recommendations for the composition of influenza vaccines for the 2026-2027 season in the northern hemisphere. Vaccine manufacturers are currently producing vaccines in accordance with the recommendations for use by the end of the year. The Government is actively making preparations for the 2026/27 Seasonal Influenza Vaccination programmes. Details will be announced in due course. In addition, influenza and COVID-19 activities are at a high level currently, I urge members of the public, especially children, the elderly and high-risk groups such as those with underlying illnesses or compromised immune systems, to seek medical attention and treatment as soon as possible if they develop a fever or respiratory symptoms, as their condition may deteriorate rapidly. This will help reduce the risk of complications. If you live with members of high-risk groups, you should wear a surgical mask at home and seek medical attention as soon as possible if you develop respiratory symptoms to reduce the risk of infecting them. Other effective ways to reduce the spread of the disease include maintaining household hygiene, frequently cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, practising good hand hygiene, and ensuring proper indoor air circulation," he added.
Dr Tsui also reminded parents that 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.
Members of the public may refer to the CHP'sCOVID-19 & Flu Express,Seasonal Influenza Webpage andCOVID-19 Vaccination Programme Webpage, for the latest information.
Source: AI-found images
