Hong Kong - CHP Seasonal Influenza Reports 2025 - 2026

[Commonground]

Ends/Thursday, March 26, 2026
DH reminds public to take precautions against infectious diseases when travelling or gathering as long holiday approaches

With the Easter and Ching Ming holidays approaching, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 26) reminded the public to remain vigilant about personal, food and environmental hygiene during grave-sweeping activities, gatherings or outbound travels. The public is also advised to get relevant vaccinations promptly in order to guard against various common or travel-related infectious diseases.

Mosquito-borne diseases
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As the weather gradually warms up, the environmental conditions become favourable for mosquito breeding. During the Ching Ming Festival, people will spend more time outdoors when visiting cemeteries and columbariums to pay respects. Grave sweepers should take proper precautions against mosquito bites, including wearing loose, light-coloured and long-sleeved tops and trousers as well as using DEET-containing insect repellent on exposed parts of the body and clothing. After paying their respects, grave sweepers should also clean out incense burners and other containers, and remove standing water and trash to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

Moreover, mosquito-borne diseases continue to spread in many regions worldwide. Dengue fever is prevalent in many neighbouring tourist destinations. Last year, Indonesia, India and Vietnam each recorded over 120 000 cases, while Malaysia and Thailand each recorded over 50 000 cases. Singapore recorded more than 4 000 cases. Regarding chikungunya fever (CF), from early 2025 to December 10, more than 40 countries/regions worldwide, including those in the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe, recorded a total of 502 264 CF cases and 186 associated deaths.

Preventing mosquito breeding and avoiding mosquito bites are the best ways to prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and CF. Members of the public planning to travel during the Easter holidays should be aware of the situation of mosquito-borne diseases at their destinations and take proper mosquito prevention measures. Those returning from affected areas should continue to use insect repellent for at least 14 days after arrival in Hong Kong.

Acute gastroenteritis, norovirus infection and food poisoning
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Norovirus can cause acute gastroenteritis (AGE). In general, norovirus is more active during the period from winter to early spring (around December to March). Norovirus is highly contagious and individuals may become infected after being exposed to even a small amount of norovirus. The virus can be transmitted through various means, such as eating contaminated food, contacting the vomit or excreta of infected persons, or contaminated objects. It may lead to a large-scale outbreak.

Between mid-January and February this year, there was a significant increase in cases of norovirus food poisoning linked to the consumption of raw oysters in Hong Kong. Although the number of cases has declined this month, the public should remain vigilant during holiday gatherings and avoid eating raw oysters or undercooked bivalve shellfish as far as possible, particularly pregnant women, young children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and those with liver disease, in order to prevent infection.

Apart from food poisoning, norovirus is one of the main causes of AGE. The number of local AGE outbreaks has continued to rise over the past four weeks (from February 22 to March 21), with a total of 24 outbreaks reported in institutions and schools and one on a cruise ship during this period, involving a total of 333 people. According to the CHP's sentinel surveillance data, the AGE activity level remains high in Family Medicine Clinics and private medical practitioner clinics. Although the norovirus activity in neighbouring regions (including Japan and Korea) has decreased compared to the beginning of the year, it remains at a relatively active level overall.

To prevent food poisoning and AGE, apart from maintaining good personal hygiene, all food should be thoroughly washed and cooked before consumption. Before handling or eating food and after using the toilet, members of the public should wash their hands with liquid soap and water, and rub for at least 20 seconds, rinse thoroughly and dry with a disposable towel or hand dryer. Since alcohol is not effective in killing norovirus, alcohol-based handrubs are not a substitute for handwashing with soap and water.

Seasonal influenza and COVID-19
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During long holidays, as cross-boundary travel and gatherings with family and friends become more frequent, the risk of transmission of various respiratory infectious diseases also increases. Regarding seasonal influenza, influenza B proportions have recently increased in many parts of the world. Although local influenza activity remains at a low level, the proportion of influenza B among positive respiratory specimens has surged from around 6 per cent in late January to 50 per cent recently, replacing influenza A (H3) as the predominant circulating seasonal influenza virus circulating in Hong Kong. The CHP cannot rule out that the influenza activity may still fluctuate.

Receiving a seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) remains the most effective way to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications. Vaccinations also reduce the risk of hospitalisation and death from infection. The public should receive a vaccination as soon as possible regardless of staying locally or planning to travel abroad. All individuals aged 6 months or older, except those with known contraindications, should act promptly if they have not yet received a SIV for this season, including those who contracted influenza in the past few months, in order to safeguard personal health.

Regarding COVID-19, there are generally periodic upsurges in activity level in Hong Kong approximately every six to nine months. As over eight months have passed since the end of last periodic upsurge of COVID-19 activity in late June last year, it cannot be ruled out that Hong Kong may experience another periodic upsurge in the next few months. Members of the public should receive a COVID-19 vaccine in a timely manner to reduce the risk of serious illness and death due to COVID-19. Under the current Government's COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, individuals aged six months or above are eligible for free initial vaccine doses. High-risk priority groups can receive booster doses for free at least six months after the last dose or COVID-19 infection (whichever is later), regardless of the number of doses received previously.
　　
To prevent respiratory diseases, members of the public should maintain good personal, hand and environmental hygiene at all times. Members of the public with respiratory symptoms, even if the symptoms are mild, should wear a surgical mask, avoid crowded places and seek medical advice promptly. They should maintain hand hygiene before putting on and after removing a mask.

Meningococcal infection
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There has recently been an outbreak of invasive meningococcal infection in Kent, the United Kingdom (UK). As of 12.30pm on March 24 (UK time), there have been at least 22 suspected and confirmed cases, two of whom have died. The cases have primarily affected young people, some of whom being students at the University of Kent, as well as individuals who have visited a local club called "Club Chemistry". According to scientific literature, there is a higher risk of transmission or outbreak of meningococcal infection in crowded settings, including university or staff dormitories.

High-risk individuals, including long-term travellers and those studying abroad, should receive meningococcal vaccinations in a timely manner, per the recommendations by the health authorities in the destination country, in order to safeguard personal health. As the Easter holiday approaches, some overseas students will be returning to Hong Kong. Members of the public who develop symptoms of meningococcal infection, including high fever, severe headache, stiff neck followed by drowsiness, vomiting, fear of bright light, or rash, should seek medical advice as soon as possible. The public should also avoid close contact with patients and maintain good personal hygiene to minimise the risk of infection.

Measles
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Measles outbreaks are currently occurring in many regions around the world. North America (including the United States, Canada and Mexico) and Southeast Asia (including Indonesia, Cambodia and the Philippines) have seen persistent measles outbreaks in recent years due to low vaccination coverage rates. In the first three months of this year, about 1 500 cases have been recorded in the United States, a figure far higher than during the same period last year. In Europe, the number of measles cases in the UK and Italy has increased recently, with 270 and 84 cases recorded respectively since January this year. In Asia, the incidence of measles remains high in the Philippines, Indonesia and Cambodia. Japan has also seen a substantial rise in cases this year, with 100 cases recorded as of March 11, which is higher than in the same period for the past six years. Singapore and Australia have reported 21 and 78 measles cases respectively this year, also higher than in the same period last year. Most of the overseas cases have affected people who were not vaccinated against measles or had an unknown vaccination status, which highlights the importance of maintaining a high vaccination rate and herd immunity within the community.
　
For those who plan to travel to measles-endemic areas, they should check their vaccination records and medical history as early as possible. If they have not been diagnosed with measles through laboratory tests and have never received two doses of measles vaccine or are not sure if they have received a measles vaccine, they should consult a doctor for vaccination at least two weeks prior to their trip. Pregnant women and women preparing for pregnancy who are not immune to measles or rubella as well as children aged under 1 year who are not due for the first dose of the measles, mumps and rubella combined vaccine under the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme are advised not to travel to places with outbreaks of measles or rubella. The incubation period of measles is seven to 21 days. Symptoms include fever, skin rash, cough, runny nose and red eyes. If travellers returning from places with high incidence or outbreak of measles develop symptoms of measles, they should wear a surgical mask, stay home from work or school, avoid crowded places and contact with people without immunity, especially those with weak immune systems, pregnant women and children under 1 year old, and seek medical advice immediately.

Members of the public may visit the DH's Travel Health Service webpage for information on infectious diseases around the world and the precautionary measures.

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202603/26/P2026032600343.htm

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Public reminded to get vaccinated to protect against periodic upsurge of influenza and COVID-19 even though activity levels remain low at present
Ends/Thursday, April 9, 2026


Although seasonal influenza activity in Hong Kong is currently at a low level, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) said today (April 9) that it cannot be ruled out that influenza activity may fluctuate as many people have returned from outbound travel following the long holiday and the proportion of influenza B among positive respiratory specimens has increased since mid-March, overtaking influenza A (H3) as the predominant circulating seasonal influenza virus in Hong Kong. Moreover, there is a possibility of another periodic upsurge in COVID-19 activity in the coming months. Therefore, the CHP urges those who have not yet received the 2025/26 seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) or the initial dose of COVID-19 vaccine to do so as soon as possible, in order to protect their personal health and reduce the risk of serious complications and death from infection.

Seasonal influenza
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"The CHP's latest surveillance data shows that the percentage of respiratory specimens that tested positive for seasonal influenza viruses last week (March 29 to April 4) was 2.17 per cent, slightly higher than the 2.08 per cent recorded in the previous week (March 22 to 28). During the same period, the influenza admission rate in public hospitals was 0.12 cases per 10 000 population, which was also slightly higher than the 0.11 cases per 10 000 population recorded in the previous week. The proportion of influenza B among positive respiratory specimens has gradually increased from approximately 6 per cent in late January to almost 50 per cent last week, overtaking influenza A (H3) as the predominant circulating strain. In recent months, influenza B has also become the predominant circulating influenza virus strain in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Besides, influenza activity in Guangdong province and Macao dropped to low levels in late February, but has recently shown a fluctuating upward trend," the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui, said.

"Although the weather is gradually warming up, the recent long holiday has seen frequent population movements and a large number of people returning from overseas travel. Hence, fluctuations in influenza activity cannot be ruled out. The CHP will closely monitor the situation. Scientific studies show that this season's SIV provides protection against both influenza A and B viruses. I would like to appeal again to everyone aged six months or above, except those with known contraindications, to get SIV as soon as possible if they have not yet done so, particularly high-risk groups such as the elderly, children, and adults with underlying illnesses or immunosuppression. In addition, those who were infected with influenza during the summer influenza season late last year but have not yet been vaccinated should also get vaccinated promptly to prevent other circulating virus strains," Dr Tsui added.

Apart from receiving SIV at public healthcare facilities under the DH's SIV Programmes, members of the public may also contact their family doctors to arrange for vaccination. Furthermore, over the past two months, the DH has continued to promote and organise community SIV activities in various districts through the District Councils and the District Services and Community Care Teams (Care Teams), with the aim of raising disease prevention awareness among local residents and the elderly. Last month, multiple District Councils/Care Teams organised 15 community SIV activities across various districts in Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories, thereby boosting vaccination coverage in the community, particularly among the elderly living alone.
　
Dr Tsui added that the CHP will continue to mobilise community resources to encourage and assist more people in receiving the 2025/26 SIV, so as to build a stronger community immunity barrier to safeguard public health.

Periodic upsurge of COVID-19 activity may be looming
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COVID-19 has become an endemic disease with cyclical patterns, exhibiting periodic upsurges in activity level approximately every six to nine months in Hong Kong. The CHP's analysis shows that periodic upsurges are associated with changes in the predominant circulating variants and a decline in herd immunity.

"The overall activity of COVID-19 is currently at a low level. Genetic analysis shows that descendant lineages derived from JN.1, including NB.1.8.1 and XFG, remain the predominant variants circulating locally. The COVID-19 vaccines currently used in Hong Kong are effective in preventing infection and serious complications. Separately, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified a newly emerged BA.3.2 variant as one of the "Variants under Monitoring" last December. This variant has been detected in more than 20 countries worldwide, but its activity remains relatively low. The WHO considered that there is no evidence that BA.3.2 causes more severe disease than the currently circulating variants," said Dr Tsui.

He added that, in view of the periodic resurgence of COVID-19, members of the public should receive a COVID-19 vaccine at an appropriate time to reduce the risk of serious complications and death after infection. Under the Government's COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, persons aged six months or above may receive initial vaccine doses free of charge, while priority groups may receive booster doses free of charge at least six months after their last vaccine dose or COVID-19 infection, whichever is later, regardless of the number of doses received previously.

Severe COVID-19 cases primarily affect the elderly, children and individuals with underlying illnesses. Scientific data has conclusively proven that the COVID-19 vaccine is effective in minimising the risk of severe disease or death. Members of the public who have not received the initial dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (including infants and children) should get vaccinated timely. Those at high risk should receive a booster dose as soon as possible. For more information on COVID-19 vaccination, please visit COVID-19 Vaccination Programme webpage.

Apart from vaccination, Dr Tsui reminded members of the public to maintain stringent personal, environmental and hand hygiene at all times to minimise the risk of contracting seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases. When respiratory symptoms appear, one should wear a surgical mask, consider avoiding going to work or school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly.

For the latest surveillance data, members of the public can refer to the CHP's weekly COVID-19 & Flu Express. For more information on vaccination, please refer to the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme webpage.

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...6040900518.htm

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Ends/Wednesday, May 20, 2026
CHP investigates two severe paediatric influenza infection cases

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (May 20) investigating two paediatric cases with developments of severe complications following infection with seasonal influenza. The cases involve two boys with good past health. The CHP reiterated that the seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) is one of the most effective methods of preventing influenza and its complications, and can reduce the risk of serious complications or death from infection.

The first case involves a 12-year-old boy. On May 12, he developed a fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose and malaise. On May 14, he further developed vomiting and confusion. During this period, the patient attended a private doctor. He was taken to the Accident and Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital on May 16, where he was hospitalised for treatment. His condition subsequently worsened, and he was transferred to the paediatric intensive care unit of United Christian Hospital on May 18. His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza B virus upon laboratory testing. His clinical diagnosis is influenza B complicated with encephalopathy. He remains hospitalised and is in critical condition.

The other case involves a 10-year-old boy. On May 10, he developed a fever, cough and runny nose. He attended a private doctor on the following day (May 11). On May 12, he developed shortness of breath and was taken to the Accident and Emergency Department of Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital. Due to a drop in blood oxygen levels, he was admitted to the hospital's paediatric intensive care unit with a clinical diagnosis of pneumonia. His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A virus upon laboratory testing, while tests for other viruses and bacteria were negative. Based on the clinical data, the CHP considered that the boy developed pneumonia as a complication of influenza A infection. The patient has recovered and has been discharged from the hospital.

Upon receiving notifications of these two cases, the CHP immediately conducted epidemiological investigations. Preliminary results revealed that both boys had received the 2025/26 SIV late last year. Neither of them has a recent travel history.

Although influenza activity in Hong Kong remains at a relatively low level, the percentage of respiratory specimens tested positive for seasonal influenza viruses has increased slightly in the last week. Based on past experience, Hong Kong may experience two influenza seasons each year. Last year's summer influenza season began later than usual and lasted longer than normal, extending from early September to early January, resulting in the absence of the winter influenza season that traditionally occurs in the first quarter of each year. Nearly six months have passed now since the last influenza season. Given that many members of the public have not been infected with the seasonal influenza virus in recent months, it cannot be ruled out that influenza activity may rise again. The CHP once again urges all persons aged 6 months or above, except those with known contraindications, that if they have not yet received an SIV, they can still get vaccinated now.

The CHP also reminded members of the public that, especially for children, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses, they should seek medical advice promptly for early treatment if they present with fever and respiratory symptoms. As children with influenza can deteriorate rapidly, parents must pay close attention to their children's condition. They should go to an Accident and Emergency Department immediately if the child's condition deteriorates, for example, if they develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, blue lips, chest pain, confusion, a persistent fever or convulsions.

Separately, high-risk individuals should wear surgical masks when staying in crowded places. People with respiratory symptoms, even if mild, should wear a surgical mask and seek medical advice promptly. They should also consider whether to attend work or school.

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/20/P2026052000796.htm

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Ends/Tuesday, June 2, 2026

Public urged to receive COVID-19 vaccination in a timely manner as disease becomes endemic in Hong Kong

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (June 2) reminded the public that COVID-19 has become an endemic disease in Hong Kong, with its activity levels fluctuating. Individuals should follow expert recommendations and receive their initial doses or booster doses in a timely manner, based on their personal risk factors and the time when they received their last dose, in order to minimise the risk of severe disease and death. The shelf life of the vaccines provided under the Government's COVID-19 Vaccination Programme is going to expire. A new batch of vaccines will arrive in Hong Kong successively in the fourth quarter of 2026. During this transition period, eligible individuals will not be able to receive free COVID-19 vaccines through the Programme for a short period. Those in need are advised to make appointments as early as possible.

Currently, the LP.8.1 vaccine provided under the Programme for children and adults will expire in mid-July and early September this year respectively. Existing vaccination services will continue until the following dates:

* Individuals aged 6 months to 11 years: Vaccination services will be available until July 10, 2026.
* Individuals aged 12 or above: Vaccination services will be available until September 5, 2026.

"Although COVID-19 activity currently remains at a low level, there are generally periodic upsurges in the COVID-19 activity level approximately every six to nine months. These are related to changes in predominant circulating variants and a decline in community herd immunity. Nearly a year has passed since the end of the last periodic upsurge of COVID-19 activity, and the CHP does not rule out the possibility that the overall COVID-19 activity may increase. Late last year, the Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases and the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases (JSC) under the CHP updated their consensus recommendations on the use of COVID-19 vaccines. Given that the Government's supply of COVID-19 vaccines will be temporarily suspended for a short period, I urge eligible individuals who require the vaccine to book an appointment as soon as possible and complete their vaccination before the aforementioned dates. Vaccination services under the Programme will resume in an orderly manner in the fourth quarter this year. Details will be announced in due course," said the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui.

According to the JSC's latest recommendations, children aged 6 months to 4 years without prior COVID-19 infection should receive two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine for completion of initial doses, with an interval of at least 28 days between doses. To ensure completion of vaccination before vaccine expiry, children who require the vaccine are encouraged to receive the first dose on or before June 12, 2026. Children aged 5 years or above (regardless of history of infection) and children aged 6 months to 4 years with prior COVID-19 infection require only one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for completion of the initial dose.

Priority groups include residents of residential care homes for the elderly; elderly persons aged 65 years or above who are living in the community; persons aged 50 to 64 years with underlying comorbidities; persons with immunocompromising conditions aged 6 months or above; pregnant women; and healthcare workers. A booster dose is recommended to be given at least six months after the last dose or COVID-19 infection (whichever is later), regardless of the number of doses received previously.

Eligible individuals may schedule an appointment via the Government's online booking platform to receive COVID-19 vaccination from Private Clinic COVID-19 Vaccination Stations, designated clinics under the DH or the Hospital Authority. For details, please refer to the webpage.

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/...6060200439.htm

[Commonground]

Ends/Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Measures to prevent the importation of viruses into Hong Kong

Following is a question by Professor the Hon Chan Wing-kwong and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (June 3):

Question:

According to a report from the World Health Organization, a hantavirus infection cluster was found on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean in April this year. In mid-May this year, an epidemic of Ebola disease also broke out in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether it has assessed the health risks posed by hantavirus and Ebola virus to Hong Kong;

(2) of the average daily number of visitors to Hong Kong from countries or regions affected by hantavirus and Ebola virus outbreaks since April this year; whether the Government will co-operate with the relevant Mainland authorities to strengthen joint prevention and control measures, so as to prevent the importation of overseas epidemics into our country; if so, of the details;

(3) whether it is aware of any contingency measures formulated by the Hospital Authority in the event of imported cases; if so, of the details; and

(4) of the measures put in place by the Government to remind the public to remain vigilant at all times and take proper protective measures?

Reply:

President,

Ebola disease is a severe acute viral illness. Six species of the Orthoebolaviruses have been identified so far, including the Bundibugyo virus involved in the current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. Ebola disease is transmitted to humans through close contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other body fluids of infected animals. Human-to-human transmission resulting from direct contact (through wound or mucous membranes) with the blood, secretions, organs or other body fluids of infected persons, and indirect contact with environment contaminated with such body fluids. According to information from the World Health Organization (WHO), the case fatality rates from past Ebola disease outbreaks ranged between 25 per cent and 90 per cent, with an average of around 50 per cent.

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses belonging to the family Hantaviridae, within the order Bunyavirales that are mainly found in rodents (such as rats and voles). There are two main groups of disease in human that are caused by hantaviruses, namely Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) and Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). The case fatality rate of HFRS is lower which ranges from less than one per cent to 15 per cent; while HPS has a higher case fatality rate which can reach about 40 per cent. Hantaviruses are primarily transmitted through direct contact with the faeces, saliva or urine of infected rodents or by inhaling the virus in aerosolised particles of their excreta. Other routes of infection include being bitten or scratched by infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission is relatively rare. The Andes virus involved in the cruise ship outbreak is currently the only type of hantavirus confirmed to have limited human-to-human transmission.

In response to Professor the Hon Chan Wing-kwong's question, the reply after consultation with the Department of Health (DH) and the Hospital Authority (HA) is as follows:

(1) According to the WHO, the risk of the outbreak of Ebola disease is very high at the national level in the DRC, high at the regional level and in Uganda, and low at the global level. In Hong Kong, viral haemorrhagic fever (including Ebola disease) is a statutorily notifiable infectious disease. Suspected or confirmed cases of Ebola disease must be immediately reported to the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the DH for epidemiological investigation, control and surveillance. So far, no confirmed cases of Ebola disease have ever been recorded in Hong Kong. At present, the risk of Ebola disease is primarily confined to outbreak areas in Africa including the DRC and Uganda. The CHP assesses that the immediate public health impact to Hong Kong is currently low.

As for hantaviruses, based on the WHO's current assessment, the risk to global health posed by the incident of hantavirus infection on the cruise ship is low. In addition, according to the information provided by the WHO and the relevant health authorities, it has been confirmed that there were no Hong Kong residents on the cruise ship concerned. Hantavirus infection is a statutorily notifiable disease in Hong Kong since 2008. Since then, 14 cases of hantavirus infection have been recorded in Hong Kong (including 12 local cases), all belonged to HFRS cases which has a relatively lower mortality rate. Over the past five years, Hong Kong recorded zero to two cases of hantavirus infection annually on average, with no hantavirus infection cases recorded in 2025 and this year (as of end May). The CHP assesses that the public health risk of hantavirus infection to Hong Kong is low.

(2) In response to the WHO's declaration that the epidemic of Ebola disease in the DRC and Uganda constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17 this year, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government announced on the same day the activation of the Alert Response Level in accordance with the Preparedness and Response Plan for Ebola Virus Disease (Response Plan). In accordance with the Response Plan, the CHP collaborates closely with various stakeholders to implement a series of prevention and control measures to guard against imported cases and safeguard public health. Based on public health considerations, the HKSAR Government has also decided to issue Red Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) for the DRC on May 21 and urged Hong Kong residents to avoid non-essential travel there.

Although there are no direct flights between the DRC, Uganda, and Hong Kong, the CHP has consulted the industry and understand that travellers arriving from these regions generally transit through Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. While the immediate public health impact to Hong Kong is currently low, the CHP has implemented a series of prevention and control measures against imported cases, including:

(i) Strengthening health screenings for passengers arriving on relevant flights from Africa at the airport, including arranging Port Health Division officers to conduct temperature checks at the relevant flight gates, conducting health screenings for passengers exhibiting symptoms;
(ii) Displaying signages and broadcasting announcements in the airport arrival area and through airlines to urge passengers who have visited the DRC or Uganda within the past 21 days to proactively declare their travel history to the on-site staff of the DH for further health assessment;
(iii) If an inbound traveller exhibits relevant symptoms and is assessed as a suspected case by the Port Health Division officers, arrangements will be made immediately to transfer the individual to the Hospital Authority Infectious Disease Centre (HAIDC) for isolation and treatment;
(iv) Strengthening public awareness and health education efforts regarding Ebola disease at all boundary control points, including broadcasting announcements and posting posters to alert travellers; and
(v) Providing the Airport Authority Hong Kong and airlines with the latest information on the virus, and urging airlines to remind their flight crews to strictly enforce established prevention and control measures if they identify suspected cases on their flights.

From May 17 to 24 this year, 19 travellers who declared having visited the relevant regions underwent health assessments by the CHP. No suspected cases of Ebola disease were identified. The CHP staff also provided these individuals with health information on the spot, reminding them to notify the CHP and seek medical advice at accident and emergency departments nearby immediately if they develop symptoms within 21 days of arrival in Hong Kong. The CHP also performs medical surveillance on these travellers during their stay in Hong Kong.

The CHP has also proactively sought further information of the epidemic from the WHO, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, and the health authorities of the DRC and Uganda. In addition, the CHP has sent letters to all doctors and hospitals in Hong Kong twice to remind them to remain highly vigilant. Any person who has travelled to affected areas (including the DRC and Uganda) within the past 21 days and exhibits relevant symptoms must be managed as a suspected case and reported immediately to the CHP via the 24-hour hotline provided in the letter.

Relevant government departments are fully prepared and will closely monitor the development of the Ebola epidemic, with a view to adjusting the prevention and control strategies as necessary.

To prevent hantavirus infection, the CHP will continue to conduct health screenings for inbound travellers at all boundary control points and perform health assessments on individuals with a fever. Relevant individuals will be referred to hospitals for medical examinations as needed. The Port Health Division has contacted the Airport Authority Hong Kong as well as relevant organisations and operators in the travel industry to provide them with information on the development of the hantavirus outbreak, preventive measures, guidelines and relevant health information, with a view to strengthening health education for travellers and port staff. Furthermore, the CHP has provided information on rodent control to relevant parties and reminded them to implement rodent control measures and strengthen environmental hygiene monitoring at all boundary control points. The CHP has also sent letters to all doctors and hospitals in Hong Kong to remind them to remain highly vigilant for hantavirus infection and to report suspected cases to the CHP.

The CHP will continue to maintain close liaison with the WHO, the Chinese Mainland, and other relevant health authorities, closely monitor the development of the Ebola disease outbreak and hantavirus infection cluster, and adjust its prevention and control strategies as necessary.

In accordance with the joint prevention and control mechanism, the CHP has also exchanged the disease prevention and control measures for Ebola disease and latest epidemic information with the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration, the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Mainland Customs, and the Health Bureau of Macao to jointly prevent the importation of the diseases.

(3) In light of the recent development of hantavirus infection and Ebola disease outbreaks, the HA has convened special meetings with the CHP to discuss risk assessment and preparedness of public hospitals.

The HA will continue to adopt the strategy of "early detection, early isolation, early notification". The HA has reminded frontline healthcare workers to strengthen the screening for patients by gathering relevant information such as symptoms, contact history, occupation, and travel history, particularly in cases where patients exhibit relevant symptoms as well as whether the person has taken the cruise ship concerned or travelled to the DRC or Uganda, or has had close contact with relevant symptomatic persons or confirmed cases.

The HA has also reminded frontline healthcare workers to remain vigilant and to strictly implement all infection control measures, including airborne, droplet, and contact precautions. Public hospitals currently have sufficient isolation facilities to receive patients requiring isolation, and there is ample stock of personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect frontline healthcare workers. The HA regularly updates the clinical guidelines for frontline healthcare workers to refer to and will further strengthen training to ensure that frontline healthcare workers are familiar with the relevant procedures, including the donning and doffing of PPE, to reduce the risk of infection and safeguard the public.

In addition, the HA has formulated a preparedness plan for Ebola disease, and has activated the Alert Response Level. If a suspected case is identified, the patient will be immediately transferred to the HAIDC at Princess Margaret Hospital for isolation and treatment. The DH will be notified as soon as possible. The patient's clinical specimens will be sent to the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch for further testing. All suspected and confirmed Ebola disease cases will be admitted to the airborne infection isolation rooms of the HAIDC.

In addition, the DH will follow established mechanisms to trace close contacts of confirmed or suspected cases. It has also inspected and ensured that the quarantine facilities (currently located at Penny's Bay) are ready for use if necessary.
　
The HA will continue to work closely with the CHP to monitor the development of the situation and review the relevant measures in a timely manner.

(4) Based on public health considerations, the HKSAR Government issued Red OTA for the DRC on May 21. As the current risk of infection is primarily concentrated in affected areas overseas, the CHP urged Hong Kong citizens to exercise caution and avoid non-essential travel to countries and regions affected by Ebola disease. Those already in the affected areas should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times, avoid contact with sick persons or animals, and ensure that food is thoroughly cooked before consumption. Upon returning to Hong Kong, residents should proactively declare their travel history to Port Health Division officers for further health assessment. Should they develop any suspicious symptoms after returning to Hong Kong, they should seek medical attention immediately and inform their doctors of their travel history.

The CHP will continue to enhance risk communication and health education for the public via various online and offline channels, including press releases, social media posts and media interviews. In addition, the CHP has met with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) serving the African community to convey relevant health information to Africans living in Hong Kong via these NGOs. The CHP has also distributed health promotional materials at venues where more Africans gather.

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/03/P2026060300294.htm

[Commonground]

Ends/Friday, June 5, 2026

CHP investigates case of severe paediatric influenza B infection
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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (June 5) investigating a severe paediatric influenza B infection case. The CHP urged the public to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent influenza and other respiratory illnesses.

The case involves a 17-year-old boy with underlying illnesses. He was admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital on May 27 due to a fever, vomiting and seizure. His condition gradually improved following treatment. He remained hospitalised and developed a fever again on June 3, accompanied by a cough with blood-stained sputum. He was transferred to the paediatric intensive care unit of United Christian Hospital yesterday (June 4) due to a drop in blood oxygen levels. His respiratory specimen collected on June 4 tested positive for the influenza B virus upon laboratory testing. The clinical diagnosis was influenza B infection complicated with severe pneumonia and shock. He remains hospitalised and is in critical condition.

The CHP's preliminary investigation revealed that the boy has not received the 2025/26 seasonal influenza vaccination. He had no travel history and did not attend school during the incubation period. His close contacts remain asymptomatic. No influenza outbreaks have been reported recently at his boarding school. The CHP will continue to investigate the case.

Influenza activity in Hong Kong has increased in recent weeks but remains below the baseline level. Based on past experience, Hong Kong may experience two influenza seasons each year. Last year's summer influenza season began later than usual and lasted longer than normal, extending from early September last year to early January this year, resulting in the absence of the winter influenza season that traditionally occurs in the first quarter of each year. Nearly six months have passed now since the last influenza season. Given that many members of the public have not been infected with the seasonal influenza virus in recent months, it cannot be ruled out that influenza activity may further increase.

The CHP also reminded members of the public that, especially for children, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses, they should seek medical advice promptly for early treatment if they present with fever and respiratory symptoms. As children with influenza can deteriorate rapidly, parents must pay close attention to their children's condition. They should go to an Accident and Emergency Department immediately if the child's condition deteriorates, for example, if they develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, blue lips, chest pain, confusion, a persistent fever or convulsions.

Separately, the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times to prevent contracting influenza and other respiratory illnesses. High-risk individuals should wear surgical masks when staying in crowded places. People with respiratory symptoms, even if mild, should wear a surgical mask and seek medical advice promptly. They should also consider whether to attend work or school.

Members of the public may refer to the CHP's COVID-19 & Flu Express, Seasonal Influenza Webpage, COVID-19 Vaccination Programme Webpage, and Vaccination Schemes Webpage, for the latest information.

https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/05/P2026060500860.htm