Hong Kong medical Expert Warns Against Delaying Treatment for Children with Flu Symptoms
A leading Hong Kong medical expert has urged parents not to delay seeking diagnosis and treatment for children with flu symptoms, following a spate of severe cases elaborate by other viral and bacterial infections. Dr Mike Kwan Yat-wah,an honorary associate professor at the University of Hong Kong’s department of paediatrics and adolescent medicine,emphasized the risks of concurrent infections,which can lead to serious complications such as encephalopathy,a condition that can cause brain damage.
“If it’s just a flu infection, the condition tends to be milder. But if the flu combines with other viruses such as Covid-19 and adenovirus, or in some cases bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Staphylococcus aureus, cases can become more severe,” Kwan explained during a radio program. He stressed the importance of timely medical intervention and urged families to ensure their children were vaccinated against the flu.
In the past week, Hong Kong recorded three cases of children with severe flu, two of whom were unvaccinated and developed encephalopathy. This condition can deteriorate rapidly within 24 hours, requiring intensive care and treatment with high doses of steroids and immunoglobulins. Sadly,a full recovery is not guaranteed,and some cases may result in permanent brain damage.
Key Takeaways
Table of Contents
| Key Point | Details |
|—————————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Severe Flu Cases | Three children in Hong Kong developed severe flu complications. |
| Encephalopathy Risk | Two unvaccinated children developed encephalopathy, a brain-damaging condition. |
| Treatment | Intensive care, steroids, and immunoglobulins may be required. |
| Vaccination Importance | Dr. Kwan emphasized the need for flu vaccination to prevent severe outcomes. |
Dr. Kwan’s warning highlights the critical need for parents to act swiftly when their children show flu symptoms. Vaccination remains a key preventive measure, as unvaccinated children are at higher risk of severe complications. For more data on flu prevention and treatment,visit the University of Hong Kong’s paediatrics department. stay informed and protect your children’s health by seeking timely medical care and ensuring they are up-to-date with their vaccinations.
Hong Kong Medical Expert Warns Against Delaying Treatment for Children with Flu symptoms
In a recent warning,Dr. Mike Kwan Yat-wah, an honorary associate professor at the University of hong Kong’s Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent medicine, emphasized the critical importance of timely medical intervention for children exhibiting flu symptoms. With a rise in severe flu cases complicated by concurrent viral and bacterial infections, dr. kwan urged parents to prioritize vaccination and seek immediate care to prevent life-threatening complications such as encephalopathy. In this exclusive interview, we delve deeper into the risks, treatments, and preventive measures surrounding flu in children.
The Rising Threat of Severe Flu Cases in Children
Senior Editor: Dr.Kwan, you’ve highlighted a concerning trend of severe flu cases among children in Hong Kong. Can you elaborate on what makes these cases particularly alarming?
Dr. Mike Kwan: Absolutely. What we’re seeing is not just the typical flu but cases where the influenza virus combines with other pathogens, such as Covid-19, adenovirus, or even bacterial infections like Streptococcus pneumoniae. These concurrent infections can escalate the severity of the illness, leading to complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, or even encephalopathy—a condition that can cause permanent brain damage. In the past week alone, we’ve seen three children hospitalized with severe flu, two of whom developed encephalopathy and were unvaccinated.
Understanding Encephalopathy and Its Risks
Senior Editor: Encephalopathy sounds terrifying. Can you explain what it is and why it’s so perilous for children?
Dr. Mike Kwan: Encephalopathy is a condition where the brain’s function is disrupted, often due to inflammation caused by infections like the flu. In children, this can manifest as confusion, seizures, or even loss of consciousness. the danger lies in how rapidly it progresses—within 24 hours, a child can go from mild symptoms to requiring intensive care. Unluckily, even with aggressive treatment involving high-dose steroids and immunoglobulins, full recovery isn’t guaranteed, and some children may suffer long-term neurological damage.
The role of Vaccination in Preventing Severe Outcomes
Senior Editor: You’ve stressed the importance of vaccination. How effective is the flu vaccine in preventing these severe complications?
Dr. Mike Kwan: Vaccination is our most effective tool in preventing severe flu outcomes. Studies, including one published in JAMA Network Open, show that the flu vaccine reduces the risk of severe illness by at least 50%. While no vaccine is 100% effective, it significantly lowers the chances of hospitalization and complications like encephalopathy. It’s particularly crucial for children under five, who are at higher risk of severe flu due to their developing immune systems.
Timely Medical Intervention: A lifesaving Measure
Senior Editor: what should parents do if they suspect their child has the flu?
Dr. Mike Kwan: the key is to act swiftly. If your child shows symptoms like high fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention can prevent the flu from escalating into a more severe condition. Additionally, ensure your child is up-to-date with their flu vaccination. It’s a simple step that can save lives.
conclusion: Protecting Our Children from Flu
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kwan, for sharing these critical insights. To summarize, what are the key takeaways for parents?
Dr. Mike Kwan: The main message is clear: don’t underestimate the flu. Vaccinate your children, monitor their symptoms closely, and seek medical care at the first sign of illness. By taking these steps, we can protect our children from severe complications and ensure their health and well-being. For more information on flu prevention and treatment, visit the University of Hong Kong’s paediatrics department.
