Editorial | No excuse for Hongkongers at risk not to get flu jab
- With Covid-19 seemingly under control, Hong Kong has to ensure it now guards against rising influenza cases
Weeks have passed since the mask mandate was lifted, and thankfully Covid-19 remains under control. Separately, fears of complications arising from seasonal influenza infections have so far not materialised.
Optimistic as it seems, the public must continue to remain alert. The announcement that the city has entered the influenza season ought to heighten vigilance.
According to the latest surveillance data of the Centre for Health Protection, the weekly percentage of detections tested positive for seasonal flu viruses has increased from below 1 per cent in the first week of March to 9.89 per cent in the week ending April 1.
The majority of cases were classified as influenza A (H1), with children and adults, aged from 50 to 64, affected most in seasons dominated by the virus, according to records.
Adding to concern is a growing admission rate to hospitals, up from 0.01 to 0.25 per 10,000 of the population during the period.
Weekly reports of outbreaks linked to institutions received by health authorities also recently rose from one to two cases to 12. They covered primary and secondary schools, special schools, residential care homes for the disabled and elderly as well as hospitals.