Vaccination calls as flu season 'not over'

A critically ill seven-year-old girl with an underlying condition is hospitalized after developing severe symptoms of influenza A, prompting health officials to stress the importance of vaccination. The girl exhibited symptoms including a runny nose, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and convulsions. She was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital and subsequently transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit due to her deteriorating condition.

Despite signs of decline in the latest surveillance data, Hong Kong's flu season continues beyond four months since its start in late June, according to health authorities.

Dr. Edwin Tsui, Controller of the Centre for Health Protection, reported that while influenza activity remains above the baseline level, a total of 28 severe pediatric influenza cases have been recorded during the current season. Of these cases, 20 patients have recovered and been discharged, two are in stable condition, four are in critical condition, and two have sadly passed away.

The Centre for Health Protection has urged residents to get vaccinated to mitigate the risk of potential illness. Their analysis of the previous year's data revealed that unvaccinated children contracting the flu have approximately five times the risk of severe complications or death compared to vaccinated children.