17-Month-Old Girl in Critical Condition After Contracting Influenza A
HK01 · 4 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A previously healthy 17-month-old girl in Hong Kong has been admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in critical condition after contracting Influenza A. The child developed severe pneumonia and septic shock, requiring intensive care. This is the ninth severe pediatric flu case recorded since late June, as the Centre for Health Protection warns that flu activity remains on an upward trajectory in the community.
Key Points
- A 17-month-old girl with good prior health developed fever and cough on June 9, then experienced breathing difficulties on June 10 and was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital's emergency department
- She tested positive for Influenza A and was diagnosed with severe pneumonia and septic shock; she remains in critical condition in the pediatric intensive care unit
- The Centre for Health Protection confirmed the child did not receive the 2025/26 seasonal flu vaccine; her household contacts are currently asymptomatic
- Since late June, Hong Kong has recorded nine severe pediatric flu cases, including one death (a 7-year-old boy who died on June 4), three recoveries, one stable case, two severe cases, and two critical cases
- Centre for Health Protection Controller Dr. Tsui Lok-kin stated that flu activity is still rising and has urged parents to ensure children receive vaccinations promptly
Why It Matters
The case highlights the vulnerability of young children to flu complications, especially those who have not been vaccinated. With flu activity expected to continue climbing, health authorities are urging schools and parents to cooperate in upcoming vaccination outreach programs to protect Hong Kong's most vulnerable populations.
The case highlights the vulnerability of young children to flu complications, especially those who have not been vaccinated. With flu activity expected to continue climbing, health authorities are urging schools and parents to cooperate in upcoming vaccination outreach programs to protect Hong Kong's most vulnerable populations.