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| 602 flu outbreaks have been recorded in schools since Sept (File photo) |
Hong Kong’s Department of Health has called on all schools to take preventive steps and manage flu outbreaks as a third severe pediatric influenza case was recorded this week, and the 13th overall for the current flu season.
One of them, a 13-year-old girl, has died from severe influenza B infection on Oct. 13.
The latest severe case involves an 11-year-old girl who is currently in serious condition after developing fever, cough and sore throat on October 19. She was taken to the accident and emergency department of Yan Chai Hospital on Oct. 21 and later transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital.
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The girl was diagnosed with influenza A infection complicated by severe pneumonia. Recently, 10 other students from different classes at her school contracted flu, but all had minor symptoms and did not require hospitalization.
The sick girl has not received this year’s seasonal influenza vaccination.
In the letter sent to all schools, the DH’s Centre for Health Protection has also called for the completion of student vaccinations as soon as possible, and said it will provide assistance as needed.
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According to CHP controller Dr Edwin Tsui, there has been more severe pediatric influenza cases this season than there were during the winter influenza season earlier this year.
“Including today's latest case, there have been 13 severe paediatric influenza cases since the start of the school year in September, including one fatal case. The affected children were between two and 17 years old, and 10 of them had good past health,” said Dr Tsui.
“A total of 602 school outbreaks have been reported since the start of the school year, including 64 cases in kindergartens/child care centres, 320 cases in primary schools and 218 cases in secondary schools. This number is far higher than the 88 cases recorded in the whole winter influenza season earlier this year.”
The CHP reminded schools to strengthen preventive measures such as using correct methods for cleaning and disinfecting campuses effectively, opening windows when appropriate to improve ventilation indoors and to remind teachers and students to observe personal hand hygiene.
In addition, teachers and students are urged to check their temperature daily before going to school. If they develop symptoms or a fever, they should stay at home. Schools should immediately report suspected outbreaks, such as respiratory infections, to the CHP.
Dr Tsui also reminded parents to pay close attention to their children’s condition as the condition of those with flu may deteriorate rapidly. If there are signs that the child’s condition has worsened, like if they develop symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, blue lips, chest pain confusion, persistent fever of convulsion, they must be taken to hospital immediately.
As before, the elderly are also highly at risk for severe influenza.
Everyone who develops respiratory symptoms, even if mild, should wear a surgical mask and seek medical advice promptly. They should also avoid going out.
