CHP records case of severe paediatric influenza infection
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 5) recorded a severe paediatric influenza infection case. The CHP urged the public to receive vaccinations as early as possible to safeguard their own health and that of their families. In addition, the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
The case involves a 10-year-old boy with good past health. He developed a fever, cough, runny nose and dizziness on October 2. He was brought to the Accident and Emergency Department of Prince of Wales Hospital on October 4. He was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit for treatment on the same day. His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A (H1) virus. His clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with shock. The patient remains hospitalised and is in serious condition.
The CHP's preliminary investigation revealed that the patient had no travel history during the incubation period, and had not received the 2026/27 Seasonal Influenza Vaccination (SIV). One of his household contacts recently developed a mild fever and upper respiratory symptoms, but the symptoms were mild and the household contact concerned has recovered. The CHP will continue to investigate the case.
Hong Kong entered the influenza season in late June. The latest surveillance data showed that influenza activity remains at a high level. Since the end of June, a cumulative total of 22 cases of severe paediatric influenza infection have been recorded. Among these cases, 16 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital, two patients are in stable condition, two are in serious condition, one is in critical condition and one has passed away. Due to widespread influenza transmission in the community in recent months, there has been a significant increase in both the number of infections and severe cases. Since the new school year started in September, nearly 350 influenza-like illness outbreaks have been recorded in schools, affecting over 2 000 persons. Therefore, schools and parents must remain vigilant and take preventive measures.
The 2026/27 SIV Programmes, including the SIV School Outreach Programme (SIVSOP), commenced on September 17. The SIVSOP this year has introduced a new Electronic Consent Form (e-consent form) feature via eHealth. This new measure not only facilitates the public to join the SIV Programmes but also streamlines the administrative procedures for healthcare service providers and schools, so that SIV outreach activities can start as early as possible. Approximately 100 schools have organised SIV outreach activities, a significant increase compared to the same period last year. SIV outreach activities are expected to be completed by mid-December, about two weeks earlier than last year. The CHP appeals to all schools and parents in Hong Kong to work closely with the CHP and complete the consent process as soon as possible so that students can be arranged to receive SIV earlier.
The CHP reminds 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 should seek medical attention as soon as possible if they develop respiratory symptoms. If they live with members of high-risk groups, such as children, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses or compromised immune systems, they should wear a surgical mask at home 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.
Members of the public may refer to the CHP'sCOVID-19 & Flu Express,Seasonal Influenza WebpageandVaccination Schemesfor the latest information.
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