CHP investigates fatal case of paediatric influenza infection
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The case involved a 12-year-old girl with underlying health conditions. She developed a fever, cough and diarrhoea on October 17, followed by vomiting. Her condition worsened on the evening of October 19 and she was brought to the Accident and Emergency Department of Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital. She suffered a cardiac arrest and was resuscitated. She was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit for treatment. Her respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A (H1) virus. Her clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with septic shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation and multi-organ failure. The patient passed away yesterday (October 20).
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 her household contacts recently developed mild upper respiratory symptoms, but the symptoms were mild and did not require hospitalisation. The CHP will continue to investigate the case. The case will be referred to the Coroner.
"Hong Kong entered the influenza season in late June this year and the influenza season has lasted for nearly four months by now. Currently, local influenza activity remains at a high level. A cumulative total of 25 cases of severe paediatric influenza infection have been recorded in the current influenza season, which is the same as that recorded during the same period last season. Among these cases, 20 patients had recovered and been discharged from hospital, one patient is in serious condition, two patients are in critical condition and two passed away (including the above case). I urge the public not to take influenza lightly, and to take appropriate preventive measures, including receiving SIV as early as possible in order to build an immunity barrier in the community and reduce the risk of severe illness and death," said the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui.
"The CHP's analysis of data from the previous year revealed that the rate of severe complications or death among unvaccinated children following influenza infection was approximately five times higher than that among vaccinated children. Among unvaccinated residents aged 65 years or older living in residential care homes for the elderly, the rate of severe complications was approximately four times higher than that among vaccinated residents. These data clearly demonstrate that SIV is the most effective way to prevent severe cases of seasonal influenza and its complications. SIV also reduces the risk of hospitalisation and death. Therefore, all people aged six months or above, except those with known contraindications, should receive SIV for personal protection as early as possible," Dr Tsui added.
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. About 960 schools have organised SIV outreach activities. SIV outreach activities are expected to be completed by mid-December, about two weeks earlier than last year.
"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 460 influenza-like illness outbreaks have been recorded in schools, affecting a total of approximately 2 800 persons. Schools and parents must remain vigilant and take preventive measures. The CHP anticipates that influenza activity will continue to fluctuate at high levels in the coming weeks," said Dr Tsui.
Dr Tsui 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 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's COVID-19 & Flu Express, Seasonal Influenza Webpage and Vaccination Schemes for the latest information.
Ends/Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Issued at HKT 19:44
Issued at HKT 19:44
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