The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 29) recorded a severe case of paediatric influenza infection. The CHP urged the public, especially those in high-risk groups, not to underestimate the seasonal influenza and to receive vaccinations as early as possible. This is crucial for preventing severe cases of seasonal influenza and its complications, as well as protecting one's 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 14-month-old girl with good past health. She developed a fever and cough on October 26. On October 27, she had a convulsion and was brought to the Accident and Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital. Her condition deteriorated on the same day and she was transferred to the paediatric intensive care unit of United Christian Hospital for further treatment. Her respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A (H1) virus. Her clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with acute necrotising encephalopathy and multi-organ failure. The patient is currently in critical condition.
The CHP's preliminary investigation revealed that the girl had no travel history during the incubation period and had not received the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination (SIV). One of her close contacts recently developed mild upper respiratory symptoms that did not require hospitalisation and has recovered. The CHP will continue to investigate the case.
"Hong Kong entered the influenza season in late June this year and the influenza season has lasted for four months by now. Over the past week (October 18 to 24), the overall influenza activity showed signs of decline but remained above the baseline thresholds. A cumulative total of 27 cases of severe paediatric influenza infection have been recorded in the current influenza season. Among these cases, 20 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital, two are in stable condition, three are in critical condition and two have passed away," said the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui.
"Vaccine effectiveness begins to wane approximately nine months after vaccination. Therefore, the World Health Organization recommends receiving SIV every year. For most people, more than nine months have passed since they received last season's (2025/26) SIV. Hence, a decline in protection is inevitable. A decline in the overall population's herd immunity, coupled with the fact that the current influenza season has persisted at high levels for an extended period, has increased the likelihood of infection and severe complications among high-risk groups. Individuals who have contracted influenza earlier this influenza season but have not yet received the SIV should also get vaccinated promptly to protect against other circulating virus strains. Receiving 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," he added.
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.
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 enables 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 1 460 schools have organised SIV outreach activities. SIV outreach activities are expected to be completed by mid-December, about two weeks earlier than last year.
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.