On April 7, 2025, a heart-wrenching case emerged from Hong Kong as the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) announced that a five-year-old boy, already battling underlying health issues, is now in critical condition due to a severe COVID-19 infection. This distressing incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced hygiene practices and vaccination efforts amidst the ongoing pandemic.

The young boy began showing alarming symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath on April 4, which ultimately led to his hospitalization at Tseung Kwan O Hospital. His condition worsened significantly, prompting an emergency transfer to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at United Christian Hospital, where he remains under intensive medical care.

Investigations into the case revealed a troubling fact: the child had not completed his COVID-19 vaccination schedule and had no recent history of travel that might have exposed him to the virus. Surprisingly, his school reported no outbreaks, although a household member recently sought medical treatment for a cough, raising concerns about potential unseen sources of infection in the community.

Dr. Edwin Tsui, Controller of the CHP, expressed alarm over the rising COVID-19 activity in the locality. Recent surveillance data showcases a shocking increase in the SARS-CoV-2 viral load in sewage, soaring from 85,000 copies per litre to approximately 330,000 copies per litre within just two weeks as of March 29. This surge is a stark warning to the public about the potential resurgence of the virus.

Dr. Tsui stressed the vital importance for high-risk individuals to receive timely booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to prevent severe illness or death. Current genetic investigations indicate that the primary viral strains circulating in Hong Kong are JN.1 and its descendants, and fortunately, the existing vaccines remain effective against them.

In light of this troubling case, Dr. Tsui called upon the community to prioritize vaccinations, particularly for those who have not yet started the process, including infants and children. He emphasized that booster shots for high-risk groups are essential for ensuring robust protection against COVID-19.

With COVID-19 still lurking and evolving, this alarming incident serves as a crucial reminder about the importance of continued vigilance, vaccination, and hygiene practices to safeguard ourselves and our loved ones. The battle against this relentless virus is far from over!