Hong Kong’s Margaret Chan voted to lead World Health Organization in 2006 – SCMP archive
This article was first published on November 9, 2006. Margaret Chan wins WHO race in coup for China, HK by Mary Ann Benitez Hong Kong’s former director of health Margaret Chan Fung Fu-chun made history yesterday (November 8, 2006) when she was nominated World Health Organisation director-general in a resounding victory that saw her lead all the way in four rounds of voting. Dr Chan, 59, is…
A Hong Kong paediatrician has urged parents to vaccinate their children against influenza as the city prepares for a potential double flu season. Dr Mike Kwan Yat-wah, a former president of the Asian Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases, warned that cooler temperatures could exacerbate the spread of the virus. This season, Hong Kong has seen 29 cases of severe paediatric influenza, with two fatalities.
Kwan explained that cold weather makes viruses easier to transmit due to changes in the virus's structure and the nature of respiratory droplets. He also noted the presence of other viruses like the respiratory syncytial virus and Covid-19, which could complicate the situation. Kwan emphasized that children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to severe symptoms and complications from influenza, such as a cytokine storm, which can lead to multiple organ inflammation and rapid deterioration.
He recommended getting vaccinated as it can reduce the risk of a cytokine storm. Kwan also advised good hygiene practices and advised those who fall ill to complete any prescribed medication to ensure effective treatment. Currently, only a quarter of children in the relevant age groups have received the seasonal influenza vaccine through government programs.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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