Hong Kong’s unusually active summer flu season
Hong Kong is facing a notably lively summer influenza period, with health officials reporting a higher rate of outbreaks than in the previous winter. Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, the controller of the Centre for Health Protection, noted that roughly 70 influenza outbreaks have been identified weekly over the past month. That figure dwarfs the peak of about 15 outbreaks seen during last winter, signaling that the virus has been highly active this season.
The expert warned that the surge is not yet at its peak and that the summer season could extend into November, a development that could lead to more people contracting the flu as well as an elevated risk of broader outbreaks across communities.
Why the outbreak is a concern
Officials emphasize that the ongoing activity increases the likelihood of overlap between summer and winter flu seasons. As temperatures shift and the weather becomes cooler, the winter influenza wave could begin even as summer transmission persists. This overlap may amplify overall infection rates and place greater strain on schools, workplaces, and healthcare services.
Tsui urged residents to get vaccinated against influenza as soon as possible. While vaccination may not completely prevent infection, it can significantly reduce the severity of illness and the risk of complications, especially for vulnerable groups such as students, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions.
Impact on schools and community health
The current season has already seen a notable impact on Hong Kong’s schools. As of Monday, about 390 school outbreaks have been recorded since September, primarily in primary and secondary institutions, affecting more than 3,000 students and staff. Health authorities say that school settings are a critical front in the fight against influenza transmission because of close contact and shared spaces.
Public health officials stress the importance of layered defenses: vaccination, good hygiene, staying home when sick, and early medical consultation for flu-like symptoms. Schools and parents are encouraged to maintain robust illness prevention measures while coordinating with the Centre for Health Protection on any outbreaks or unusual clusters of illness.
Recent pediatric death underscores the stakes
Hong Kong’s health authorities reported the territory’s first pediatric flu-related death of the season over the weekend. A 13-year-old girl who had not received the current season’s influenza vaccine died after contracting the virus. The student, who attended TWGHs Wong Fung Ling College in Ma On Shan, had been vaccinated under the previous government vaccination program but did not receive the 2025-26 season shot. The tragedy highlights the ongoing risk of influenza and the potential protective benefits of vaccination, even for those who received earlier vaccines.
What residents can do now
Health officials are advising residents to take prompt action to protect themselves and others. Key recommendations include:
- Get vaccinated against influenza as soon as possible, especially if you are in a high-risk group or have not yet received the 2025-26 seasonal vaccine.
- Practice everyday preventive measures: frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
- Stay home when you are ill to reduce transmission and seek medical care if you experience severe symptoms or belong to a high-risk category.
- Monitor local health advisories for updates on outbreaks and school notices related to influenza cases.
As authorities monitor the evolving trajectory of the outbreak, residents are reminded that influenza vaccination is a critical line of defense to minimize illness, hospitalizations, and disruption to daily life during a season that may stretch from summer into late autumn.
