Centre for Health Protection

Hong Kong has entered the summer flu season with rising flu cases and increasing Covid-19 infections. Health authorities urge vigilance as Dr. Albert Au Ka-wing notes a significant rise in flu cases, though the duration of the season remains unpredictable.

Hong Kong health authorities warn of an earlier-than-usual summer flu season with a peak expected later this month, urging unvaccinated residents to get vaccinated. Dr. Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, controller of the Centre for Health Protection, noted increased influenza activity since May and cited the previous summer flu season's duration from September to January.

A sample from a Hong Kong wet market tested positive for H9 bird flu after a two-year-old boy who visited the market was infected with H9N2 avian influenza. The Centre for Health Protection stated the risk of a serious outbreak is low.

Two infants in Hong Kong have been confirmed severely infected with Covid-19 within a week, with one in critical condition. Both infants had good past health but were unvaccinated. Health authorities urged unvaccinated high-risk groups to get vaccinated amid ongoing concerns about Covid-19 activity.

Hong Kong has seen a surge in Mpox cases linked to a gay-friendly sauna and fitness club in Mong Kok. Health authorities are conducting a vaccination outreach program for high-risk groups and have contacted over 300 individuals who visited the venue since May for medical surveillance.

Hong Kong has one of the world’s longest life expectancies, a distinction it has maintained for much of the past decade according to data from the city’s Centre for Health Protection. However, longer lifespans do not necessarily ensure healthier, more fulfilling, or financially secure lives, raising new challenges for healthcare systems in ageing societies.

Hong Kong health authorities identified five Mpox cases linked to a gay sauna and fitness club in Mong Kok called Hutong. The venue was closed for investigation after the cases, including two previously reported by mainland Chinese authorities, were linked to 'high-risk activities' with strangers.