The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is currently investigating a severe case of paediatric influenza A infection. This development has prompted the CHP to issue a reminder to the community, urging them to be more vigilant against the influenza virus. In light of this situation, the CHP is appealing to the public to receive timely seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) to enhance their protection during the influenza season.
The case involves an 11-year-old boy who has underlying diseases. He started experiencing a cough and runny nose on February 4, followed by general weakness and difficulty swallowing a few days later. The child sought medical advice from a private doctor on February 5 and 9. However, due to worsening symptoms, he was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at United Christian Hospital (UCH) on February 10. Today, he was subsequently transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s PICU for further treatment. Laboratory testing confirmed that his respiratory specimen was positive for influenza A (H3) virus, and he was diagnosed with influenza A infection complicated with encephalitis. Sadly, his condition is critical at the moment.
Initial enquiries by the CHP have revealed that the patient did not travel during the incubation period. Two individuals the boy had contact with at home are currently displaying symptoms. As a result, the CHP’s investigations into the case are still ongoing.
A spokesperson for the CHP emphasized the seriousness of influenza, stating that it can result in severe illness for both high-risk individuals and even healthy individuals. They highlighted that SIV is one of the most effective preventive measures against seasonal influenza and its associated complications, including reduced hospitalization rates and death. The spokesperson recommended that all individuals aged six months and above should receive SIV, except those with known contraindications. They stressed that high-risk individuals such as the elderly and children should receive the vaccination early due to their increased susceptibility to influenza and its complications. Additionally, since it takes approximately two weeks for antibodies to develop, the public is advised to receive SIV as early as possible to ensure protection against seasonal influenza. Detailed information regarding vaccination schemes can be found on the CHP’s website.
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to note that individuals who contract both influenza and COVID-19 simultaneously may experience more severe illness and face a higher risk of mortality. Therefore, it is strongly advised that both SIV and COVID-19 vaccinations be received promptly, particularly by children and elderly individuals residing in the community or residential care homes. The public is also reminded of the importance of maintaining good personal and environmental hygiene to safeguard against influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
To summarize, the CHP’s investigation into a severe case of paediatric influenza A infection serves as a reminder for the community to heighten their vigilance against influenza. The public is urged to receive seasonal influenza vaccination to enhance their protection during the influenza season. The spokesperson emphasized the importance of SIV in preventing severe complications and reducing the risk of hospitalization and death. It is crucial for high-risk individuals, such as the elderly and children, to receive the vaccination early. Furthermore, the public is encouraged to receive both SIV and COVID-19 vaccinations promptly, given the increased severity and potential fatality when both illnesses are contracted simultaneously. By adhering to good personal and environmental hygiene practices, individuals can effectively protect themselves against influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
