CHP urges schoolchildren to promptly receive seasonal influenza vaccination as another fatal case of paediatric influenza infection recorded
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"The girl had good past health. This is the third fatal case of paediatric influenza infection this year. Including this case, 13 severe paediatric influenza cases have been recorded since the launch of this year's SIV Programmes in September, with only one having received this year's SIV prior to the onset of illness. As it generally takes two weeks for the body to develop sufficient protection after vaccination; in other words, these severe influenza cases are not protected by the vaccine. To avoid recurrence of such tragedies, I urge all persons aged 6 months or above, except those with known contraindications, who have not yet received the SIV to do so promptly, especially high-risk groups such as children, the elderly, and adults with underlying illnesses and immunosuppression. Apart from receiving the SIV through various programmes launched by the Government, members of the public may also contact their family doctors to arrange vaccinations," the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui, said.
"According to the latest surveillance data, influenza activity has gradually declined since late October. However, it remains above the baseline thresholds. As the weather turns cooler, influenza activity may still fluctuate. Moreover, a winter influenza season may occur early next year. Therefore, I once again urge all persons aged 6 months or above, except those with known contraindications, who have not yet received the SIV to do so promptly. Compared to the winter influenza season earlier this year, there have been more severe paediatric influenza infection cases this season. Currently, among children aged below 18 years, the coverage rate of children aged 6 months to under 2 years is relatively low, at nearly 17 per cent only. Parents should not hesitate and should contact their family doctors as soon as possible to arrange for their children, as well as themselves and other family members, to receive the SIV," Dr Tsui added.
Members of the public, especially children, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses, should seek medical advice promptly if they present with fever and respiratory symptoms for early treatment. As children with influenza can deteriorate rapidly, parents must pay close attention to their children's condition. They should go to an Accident and Emergency Department immediately if the child's condition deteriorates, for example, if they develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, blue lips, chest pain, confusion, a persistent fever or convulsions.
Separately, high-risk individuals should wear surgical masks when 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.
For the latest information on seasonal influenza, members of the public can visit the CHP's seasonal influenza and COVID-19 & Flu Express webpages.
Ends/Friday, November 28, 2025
Issued at HKT 17:10
Issued at HKT 17:10
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