A pediatric infectious disease expert has warned that colder weather could extend the flu season and increase the number of critical cases among children. Mike Kwan, president of the Asian Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases, expressed concern about the current flu season merging with the winter flu season, which could lead to a prolonged period of flu infections. He stated, "Since the weather is going to get more cold, and also we are going into the winter season, I really worry that the current flu season will merge with the winter flu season." Kwan's warning includes the possibility of a rise in pediatric critical cases or even mortality if infection numbers remain high. He urged parents to ensure their children receive this season's influenza vaccine as soon as possible.
Kwan noted that if infection rates persist, critical cases in children will increase alongside them. The potential for a prolonged flu season due to colder weather and the transition into winter has raised alarm. Kwan's call for immediate vaccination underscores the urgency of protecting children against the flu.
As the weather turns colder and winter approaches, healthcare experts like Kwan highlight the potential for a challenging flu season. By emphasizing the need for vaccination, Kwan aims to mitigate the risks posed by the combination of current and winter flu infections among children. The concern over prolonged flu season duration and the associated increase in critical cases serves as a public health reminder.