Hong Kong health authorities are urgently appealing to parents to prioritize seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) for their children following a severe case involving a two-year-old girl battling serious complications from the flu. The incident, confirmed Thursday, highlights the persistent risk of seasonal influenza despite a recent dip in overall activity.
The young patient, previously in good health, developed severe symptoms, including fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, starting Nov. 25. After initially being admitted to United Christian Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department, her condition rapidly worsened, leading to shock and multi-organ failure. Laboratory results from a nasopharyngeal swab confirmed Influenza A (H3). The girl, who had not received the 2025/26 seasonal vaccine, is now in critical condition and is being transferred to Hong Kong Children’s Hospital for life support and specialized management.
Rising Severity Despite Lower Activity
This severe case escalates the summer season total of pediatric influenza infections to 22, affecting children ranging from 11 months to 17 years old, and includes two fatalities. Disturbingly, since the launch of this year’s vaccination programs, 13 severe infections have been recorded. Of critical concern is the finding that only one of these 13 children had been vaccinated, and protection was insufficient as the dose was administered only four days before symptom onset. Full immunity generally requires approximately two weeks to develop post-vaccination.
Dr. Edwin Tsui, Controller of the Centre for Health Protection, emphasized the concerning trend: “Severe pediatric cases are more frequent this season compared with last winter.” He noted that vaccination uptake among the most vulnerable group—children aged six months to under two years—remains dangerously low, hovering around 17 percent.
While overall influenza activity has eased since late October, it remains above baseline levels and could surge again as temperatures drop, potentially leading to an early winter outbreak.
Actionable Takeaways for Parents and Caregivers
Health experts stress that the best defense against severe disease is prompt vaccination. The recommendation covers all eligible individuals aged six months and older, barring specific contraindications.
- Prioritize Vaccination: Contact family doctors immediately to arrange SIV for children, especially those under two, and other household members.
- Monitor Symptoms Closely: Everyone, particularly children, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions, should seek early medical consultation if fever and respiratory symptoms develop.
- Recognize Warning Signs: Parents must be vigilant, as children with influenza can deteriorate rapidly. Urgent Accident and Emergency evaluation is necessary if any red flags appear, including:
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Cyanotic (blue) lips
- Chest pain or confusion
- Persistent high fever or convulsions
Furthermore, high-risk individuals should wear surgical masks in crowded settings. Anyone exhibiting respiratory symptoms, even mild ones, must wear a mask, consult a doctor promptly, and refrain from attending school or work to prevent community spread. Effective preventative measures are key to mitigating the risk of serious complications and lowering the burden on the city’s healthcare system as the winter season approaches.