A 13‑year‑old child died and a two‑year‑old is critically ill in Hong Kong after a severe influenza A outbreak, prompting officials to call for urgent vaccination measures.
Two‑Year‑Old in Critical Condition Amid Outbreak
Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection reported on 20 October a severe case of influenza A in a two‑year‑old with a concurrent illness. The infection manifested with fever and seizures. Doctors determined that the child had spent part of the incubation period in Guangdong Province and returned to Hong Kong on 17 October. The child had not received the latest seasonal flu vaccine under the vaccination programme.
Fatality of 13‑Year‑Old Marks First Child Death in Hong Kong Since 2023
On 12 October, municipal authorities announced the death of a 13‑year‑old who developed influenza B. She had no chronic disease and it was the first child death from influenza in Hong Kong since June of the previous year.
Rising Influenza‑Like Illnesses in Hong Kong Schools
Dr. Edwin Tsui of the CHP noted that the summer flu season was underway and that from September a significant increase in clusters of influenza‑like illnesses in schools was observed. As of 20 October, 556 clusters had been reported: 59 in preschools and childcare facilities, 298 in primary schools, and 199 in secondary schools. Including the latest fatality, 11 severe cases of influenza in children aged 2‑17 have been recorded since the start of the school year.
Urgent Appeal for Vaccination from Authorities
Health officials heightened their call for vaccination, stressing that the two‑year‑old had not received the recent seasonal vaccine and that preventive measures are essential.
Polish Influenza Vaccination Rules for Children
In Poland, babies under six months are not vaccinated against influenza. From six months, a child may receive a syringe injection, and after 24 months, a nasal spray is administered. Children aged seven months to two years may receive an inactivated vaccine intramuscularly with two doses spaced at least four weeks apart if not previously vaccinated. Children aged three to 18 can receive both an inactivated intramuscular vaccine and a live intranasal vaccine. Contraindications include anaphylaxis or severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any vaccine component.
