Up to 75 percent of adults who died of influenza were unvaccinated, says health chief

Since the start of the flu season, there have been a total of 240 severe flu cases, with 90 percent of adult cases involving seniors aged 65 or above. Among the fatal cases, 75 percent had chronic illnesses, and the same percentage had not been vaccinated, said Hong Kong’s health chief.

Speaking on a radio program Saturday morning, Ronald Lam Man-kin, deputy director of health, said since the flu season began last month, Hong Kong has now reached its peak as of Wednesday, with the predominant virus being the H1 strain of Influenza A.

Lam said the vaccination rate in schools has reached 90 percent, while elderly care homes have a vaccination rate close to 80 percent. However, only 50 percent of seniors aged 65 or above have been vaccinated, and the vaccination rate for children aged 6 months to 2 years is only around 20 percent.

He emphasized that young children are still in their developmental stage, and if they contract the flu, complications such as sepsis and encephalitis could lead to long-term health consequences.

He reminded members of the public that all maternal and child health centers now allow online booking for flu vaccinations. Additionally, healthcare professionals have been reminded to proactively explain vaccination details to parents.

Flu activity could rise again after schools resume following the Lunar New Year holiday, Lam warned, adding that students displaying symptoms should refrain from attending classes. Schools are also encouraged to conduct temperature checks before allowing students to enter the premises.

He also called on the public to get vaccinated as soon as possible, which he said could help boost immunity and reduce complications and mortality rates.