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Urgent Warning: 10-Month-Old Girl in Critical Condition Due to Influenza A - Parents Advised to Vaccinate!
2025-01-27
Author: Li
Severe Influenza A Infection Raises Alarms
On January 27, 2025, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) in Hong Kong issued a distressing report regarding a ten-month-old girl hospitalized with a severe influenza A infection that has raised alarms in the community. Shockingly, the infant had not received her seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) prior to falling ill, and her condition remains serious as she receives treatment.
Timeline of Illness
The young girl, previously healthy, first showed signs of illness on January 23, with alarming symptoms including a high fever, persistent cough, and even seizures. She was rushed to the Accident and Emergency Department at United Christian Hospital, where her condition quickly escalated, prompting immediate admission to the pediatric intensive care unit.
Laboratory Findings and Complications
Medical professionals performed laboratory tests that confirmed the influenza A (H1) virus present in her nasopharyngeal swab. A distressing finding revealed that her condition was complicated by encephalitis, a serious inflammation of the brain.
Investigation of Possible Transmission
Interestingly, the infant had no known travel history during her incubation period; however, one of her household contacts had been exhibiting upper respiratory symptoms days before her illness began. The investigation revealed that the girl had not received the 2024/25 seasonal influenza vaccination, a crucial preventive measure recommended by health authorities.
Urgent Call for Vaccination
The CHP is urging all parents to take immediate action to vaccinate their children against influenza. As of early January, the CHP has reported five severe influenza cases in children since the beginning of the flu season. Alarmingly, four of these cases involved children who were unvaccinated, highlighting the critical need for timely vaccination.
Importance of Vaccination
Health officials emphasize that influenza vaccination is a scientifically proven and effective strategy to prevent seasonal influenza and its associated complications. This is especially important for vulnerable populations, including young children and the elderly, who are at a higher risk of severe illness.
Final Urging for Parents
In light of this urgent situation, families are strongly encouraged to prioritize the health and safety of their children by ensuring they receive the seasonal influenza vaccination as soon as possible. Don’t wait until it’s too late—act now to safeguard your loved ones against this potentially deadly virus!