Hong Kong is experiencing an intense start to its flu season, with health authorities reporting 122 deaths and a significant surge in severe cases during the first four weeks of the outbreak.
Dr. Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, controller of the Centre for Health Protection, revealed Wednesday that this year’s flu season is markedly more severe compared to the previous year, with 199 adult cases requiring intensive care or resulting in death, compared to 127 cases in the same period last year.
The data paints a stark picture of vulnerability, with nearly 90 percent of fatalities affecting individuals aged 65 and older. Among children, nine severe flu-related complications were documented, with seven of those cases involving unvaccinated children.
“The current flu activity levels are high, not just in Hong Kong but across several Northern Hemisphere countries,” Tsui warned, emphasizing the critical nature of preventive measures.
Health officials are urging the public, particularly older adults and parents of young children, to take proactive steps. Recommendations include maintaining rigorous personal and environmental hygiene, monitoring local infectious disease trends, and considering vaccination.
The sharp increase in severe cases underscores the unpredictability of seasonal influenza and the importance of public health vigilance.
As the flu season progresses, health authorities continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updated guidance to protect public health.