Arrival of the Influenza Season in Hong Kong
14 January 2025
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As the influenza (flu) season is upon us, we would like to ask for vigilance in regard to cold and flu symptoms.
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) has contacted all schools regarding the 2025 influenza season and the need for increased monitoring. The surveillance data of the CHP shows that both the weekly percentage of respiratory specimens tested positive for seasonal influenza viruses and the influenza-associated admission rate in public hospitals have exceeded their baseline threshold. Currently, the predominating circulating virus is influenza A(H1).
Illnesses like colds and flu are spread from person to person via respiratory droplets. These droplets are spread by coughing, sneezing or touching objects or people with contaminated hands. We know that some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on surfaces such as desks and doorknobs. These illnesses easily spread among people through their day-to-day contacts. In this regard, we would like to reinforce preventive measures in our school so as to mitigate the impact of seasonal influenza.
As schools and organisations are collective assembly places, we ask you to please check the body temperature of your child every day during this influenza season before arriving at the school. Please promptly seek medical advice if influenza-like symptoms develop so that appropriate treatment can be initiated as early as possible to prevent complications.
To prevent outbreaks of influenza and other respiratory infections, it is of prime importance that children with fever (oral temperature higher than 37.5℃ or ear temperature higher than 38℃), regardless of the presence of respiratory symptoms, will need to refrain from attending school.
We also encourage all students to do the following at school and at home:
1. Cover their mouth and nose when sneezing, use a tissue if available, dispose of the tissue properly, and then wash their hands afterwards.
2. Keep their hands away from their eyes, nose and mouth.
3. Wash their hands frequently with soap and warm water.
4. Refrain from sharing cups, water bottles or eating utensils.
5. Stay home when feeling unwell, especially with a fever or any flu-like symptoms.
6. Consider wearing a mask for added protection.
7. Please consider the seasonal influenza vaccination available at local clinics.
If uncertain about your child’s health status, please contact the school to consult with our medical staff.
For any enquiries or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at the contact information provided below.
Kind regards,
Tamara, Kate and Jess
Health and First Aid Coordinators
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
Main Campus Tel No. : +852 2987 7331
Early Years Campus Tel No: +852 2914 2142
Sixth Form Campus Tel No: +852 3962 1500