Mike Yat-Wah Kwan, president of the Asian Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases, warned that influenza B could lead to more serious complications than influenza A, urging parents not to underestimate the risks as the city faces a surge in cases.
His comments came after a 13-year-old girl infected with influenza B has died, marking Hong Kong’s first child fatality linked to influenza this year.
(Read more: First child death from seasonal influenza since last June reported as 13-year-old girl dies)
Speaking on a radio program on Monday morning, Kwan said influenza B often results in complications such as myocarditis and pneumonia, which can develop rapidly if not treated early.
He advised parents to seek medical attention promptly if their children’s symptoms persist for one or two days—especially if they show confusion, drowsiness, or loss of appetite. Early use of antiviral medication, he added, can help reduce the severity of illness.
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) controller, Edwin Tsui Lok Kin, said earlier the case was the first paediatric flu death since June last year.
He said Hong Kong is currently in its summer influenza season, with outbreaks in schools rising sharply since September.
Between September and October 9, the CHP recorded 337 institutional outbreaks—including 35 in kindergartens and child care centres, 182 in primary schools, and 120 in secondary schools.
What is Influenza B?
Influenza B is caused by the type B influenza virus, which mainly infects humans and mutates less frequently than influenza A. However, it can still cause severe respiratory illness—particularly among children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems.
Common Symptoms of Influenza B
Fever: Usually high (above 38°C), often accompanied by chills.
Sore throat and cough: Persistent dry cough and throat pain lasting several days.
Fatigue and muscle pain: Marked tiredness with muscle or joint aches.
Headache: A frequent symptom.
Gastrointestinal discomfort: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea—especially in children.
Other symptoms: Eye pain, throat swelling, and loss of appetite.
Incubation and Transmission
Incubation period: Typically 1–4 days, with illness lasting 5–7 days.
Transmission: Primarily through respiratory droplets and direct contact with contaminated surfaces.
