Flu fears heighten for HK travelers after tragedy in Japan

Cheng Wong

Some Hongkongers traveling to Japan are worried about flu outbreaks in light of Barbie Hsu's death.

Respiratory medicine specialist Leung Chi-chiu urged locals to prioritize vaccinations and personal hygiene when traveling to the popular holiday destination.

Leung told The Standard that many Hongkongers have not had vigorous exposure to the H1N1 strain impacting Japan, leading to weakened immunity and increased susceptibility to infections.

"The flu virus can lead to viral pneumonia and damage our respiratory system, heightening the risk of secondary bacterial infections," he said.

Leung advised travelers to avoid crowded and poorly ventilated spaces, stagger travel times, wear masks and diligently practice hand hygiene.

Hongkonger Wong, who is set to go to Japan on Saturday, expressed shock at the death of Hsu.

"I've already bought tickets so I will still go, but my family and friends have reminded me to be extra cautious as [Hsu] died at a young age. The flu should not be taken lightly," she said.

Centre for Health Protection controller Edwin Tsui Lok-kin said since the flu season began in Hong Kong in early January, there have been 199 adult cases requiring intensive care or resulting in death, compared to 127 cases during the same period of the previous flu season.

He noted that nearly 90 percent of flu deaths involved those aged 65 and older.

Japan recorded about 9.42 million flu cases from September 2, 2024 to January 26, 2025 according to data released by Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases.

cheng.wong@singtaonewscorp.com