14yo girl came down with severe influenza A infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health recorded a severe paediatric influenza A infection case. The case involves a 14-year-old girl with underlying illnesses. She developed a fever, runny nose and cough since September 2, and attended the Accident and Emergency Department of United Christian Hospital. She was admitted for treatment and her condition deteriorated on the next day (September 3). She was transferred to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of the hospital. Her respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A (H1) virus. Her clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with severe pneumonia and septic shock. The patient remains hospitalised with serious condition.

The CHP's preliminary investigation revealed that the girl had no travel history during the incubation period. Two of her household contacts, who recently developed upper respiratory symptoms, also tested positive for influenza A virus. Their conditions were mild and no hospitalisation was required.

"Since Hong Kong entered the influenza season in late June, a total of 13 cases of severe paediatric influenza infection have been recorded. Among these cases, eight patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital, two patients are in stable condition, one is in serious condition, one is in critical condition and one has passed away. According to the latest surveillance data, influenza activity remains high. Owing to widespread influenza transmission in the community in recent months and the rise in infections, the number of severe cases has increased accordingly. We anticipate that influenza activity will remain at a high level during the initial period of the new school year, with possible influenza outbreaks in schools. Therefore, schools and parents must remain vigilant and take preventive measures," said the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui.