Hong Kong has recorded a new case of influenza B involving a 17-year-old male patient with a chronic underlying condition. Speaking on a radio program today (June 8), Professor Ivan Hung, Head of the Infectious Disease Division in the Department of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong's Faculty of Medicine, said the case is isolated. He noted that due to the patient's long-term illness, which has created an immune vulnerability, combined with the fact that he had not been vaccinated, severe illness could occur.
Professor Hung also pointed out that both influenza A and B cases are on the rise locally, with influenza A — specifically the X3 variant — remaining dominant. He explained that between August and September last year, the influenza virus changed, resulting in the emergence of the X3 variant strain. This variant has essentially seen mutations in ten genes, leading to low population immunity against X3 among most Hong Kong residents. However, he added that the current upward trend in flu cases is not yet severe, and the situation requires close monitoring.
According to Professor Hung, the low number of flu cases in the community since January of this year has indirectly led to a decline in community antibody levels. Additionally, with the Southern Hemisphere currently experiencing winter, the flu virus may be brought back to the Northern Hemisphere, raising the possibility of a summer flu peak in Hong Kong. He stressed that whether a major outbreak occurs in the future depends largely on two factors: whether the flu virus mutates further and the overall influenza vaccination rate.
Professor Hung further noted that Hong Kong's overall influenza vaccination rate has been steadily rising over the past two years. He believes this reflects increased awareness among parents, as well as the availability of the nasal spray vaccine as an alternative option.
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