Macau’s influenza virus rate remains above the alert threshold, with the Health Bureau (SSM) calling on residents, especially high-risk groups, to strengthen flu prevention and get vaccinated as soon as possible.
According to an SSM statement on Friday, five collective infection cases resembling influenza have been detected in Macau. The statement noted that flu cases have stayed relatively high since mid-October, with a marked increase in adult cases.
Weekly consultations for influenza-like illnesses diagnosed at the bureau’s Adult Emergency Service rose from 241 to 297 between November 9 and 15, representing a 20 percent increase, the statement said, adding that paediatric emergency consultations dropped by roughly 7 percent, from 615 to 573.
According to the bureau, laboratory data shows that influenza positivity rates continue to fluctuate but remain active overall. After falling from 28.9 percent in mid-October to 11.6 percent last week, the rate almost doubled to 22.7 percent, surpassing the alert level of 13.1 percent.
Influenza A (H3) accounted for 91.4 percent of the cases, the statement noted, adding that the bureau also reported an uptick in collective infection cases. Numbers climbed from 15 over the previous two-week period to 19 last week, mostly in primary and secondary schools, with no severe cases recorded, the statement pointed out.
Since mid-September, Macau has registered one severe influenza case involving a 79-year-old male who required ventilatory support. The patient has since recovered and been discharged. He had not been vaccinated against influenza.
With influenza circulation remaining high, the Health Bureau urges residents – particularly pregnant women, children and people with chronic illnesses – to get vaccinated promptly to reduce the risk of severe complications.
This photo downloaded yesterday shows the influenza (A) virus. – Photo courtesy of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
