First severe flu case of 2025: unvaccinated 4-year-old in PICU, school listed for refusing on-site vaccinations

Hong Kong has reported its first severe flu case of the year involving a 4-year-old child, sparking renewed focus on vaccination efforts. The child, who is currently in an intensive care unit (ICU) after contracting both influenza and pneumococcal infections, had not received the flu vaccine. The child's school was among 168 institutions listed by the Department of Health (DH) as refusing to arrange on-site vaccination programs for students.

Health Secretary Lo Chung-mau discussed the case on a radio program today (Jan. 11), emphasizing the importance of vaccination. He revealed that 90% of kindergartens, primary, and secondary schools in HK have joined the school outreach flu vaccination program. However, some schools remain resistant despite repeated reminders and direct contact from the DH.

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