Respiratory viruses surge among children in Hong Kong and Taiwan

Health authorities in Hong Kong and Taiwan are reporting a significant rise in respiratory virus infections, particularly among children, coinciding with the start of the school season. In Hong Kong, the Centre for Health Protection has recorded 19 severe pediatric influenza cases since late June, including one fatality. Recent severe cases involved an 11-year-old with encephalitis and a 6-year-old with severe pneumonia; notably, neither child had received the seasonal flu vaccine.

Monitoring indicates that Influenza A (H1) is the dominant strain in Hong Kong, accounting for over 80% of cases. While no significant genetic mutations or drug resistance have been detected, the hospitalization rate for children aged 0–5 is currently higher than that for seniors. To combat the spread, the Department of Health is launching its seasonal vaccination program on September 17, utilizing electronic consent forms via the ‘eHealth’ platform to streamline school-based vaccinations.

In Taiwan, medical professionals are warning of a ‘virus battle’ involving five major pathogens: Influenza A, COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Enterovirus, and Adenovirus. Doctors emphasize that Influenza A often presents with sudden high fevers exceeding 39°C and severe muscle aches. Experts recommend seeking medical attention within 48 hours of symptom onset to maximize the effectiveness of antiviral medications and urge parents to keep sick children home to break the chain of transmission.