Hong Kong may face a sharp rise in flu cases following the holiday season, as travelers returning from overseas could bring seasonal influenza strains back to the city. Health expert David Hui Shu-cheong predicts that mid-January could mark a peak in flu infections, although a major Covid-19 outbreak is unlikely.
Hui, speaking on a local TV program, pointed to a recent uptick in positive influenza tests and an increase in flu-related visits to both government and private clinics. This surge in influenza activity is expected to continue, with many citizens returning from regions experiencing H1N1 outbreaks, including mainland China, Japan, and Taiwan. These travelers could bring the virus into Hong Kong, exacerbating the situation.
The predominant influenza strain currently circulating in the city is H1N1. Hui noted that if the virus strain changes, the peak flu period could extend into later months.
The health expert also warned that certain high-risk groups—such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with obesity—are particularly vulnerable to severe complications and death from the flu. He strongly advised parents to vaccinate children aged 2 to 5, as unvaccinated children in this age group are 6.4 times more likely to suffer from serious health issues, including death, compared to their vaccinated peers.
While Covid-19 infection rates have been rising slightly, Hui reassured the public that due to widespread previous infections and vaccinations, a large-scale Covid-19 outbreak is not expected in the near future.
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