26th September 2023 – (Hong Kong) The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has launched an investigation into a concerning case of severe paediatric influenza A infection. In light of this development, health officials are reminding the community to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions against influenza transmission.
The case involves a previously healthy 16-year-old boy who began experiencing a fever and cough on 22nd September. As his symptoms worsened, he was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit at Prince of Wales Hospital on 25th September. Laboratory tests confirmed that his respiratory specimen was positive for influenza A (H3) virus. The clinical diagnosis indicated influenza A infection complicated by pneumonia. Presently, the patient’s condition is reported as serious.
Preliminary inquiries conducted by the CHP have revealed that the patient did not have a travel history during the incubation period. However, one of his household contacts is currently displaying symptoms associated with influenza. The CHP’s ongoing investigations aim to shed further light on the potential source and extent of the infection.