Hong Kong’s Summer Flu Season to Extend Longer Than Last Year

Dr. Edwin Tsui, the Director of the Centre for Health Protection, stated that the current summer flu season in Hong Kong has entered its 16th week and shows no signs of easing. He expects this year's season will last longer than last year. The predominant virus strains have alternated between H3 and H1. There have been multiple severe cases of children requiring intensive care or passing away, with a significant rise in adult cases as well.

Virus Dominance Changes

Dr. Tsui mentioned that the predominant virus strains have alternated between H3 and H1. H3-type flu started dominating from the end of June, before being replaced by H1 in August.

Severe Cases in Children and Adults

As of now, 25 children have been admitted to intensive care or have died due to severe flu this year, with over 80% being either unvaccinated or having chronic illnesses. Two children, including a 12-year-old girl, have died.

Among adults, 841 have been admitted to intensive care or have died, a significant rise from the 490 in 2025.