CHINA

New Covid Wave in Hong Kong Is Causing Severe Infections in Children

Published: May. 13, 2025 4:58 p.m. GMT+8

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Health officials have reported a substantial increase in Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong. Photo: File photo

Hong Kong is experiencing a significant resurgence of Covid-19 infections, with particular concern over its impact on children.

Health officials have reported a substantial increase in Covid-19 cases, signaling that the city has entered a new peak period. Data released by the Centre for Health Protection on Tuesday showed that the Covid-19 infection rate has increased from 1.7% in mid-March to 11.4%, surpassing the peak observed in August 2024.

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Hong Kong's Covid-19 infection rate rose from 1.7% in mid-March to 11.4%, surpassing August 2024’s peak, with increased severe cases among children and adults, especially the unvaccinated and those with chronic conditions.
The government is offering free mRNA vaccines targeting the JN.1 subvariant for all eligible age groups.
Other regions, including Bangkok and Taiwan, are also seeing Covid-19 surges, with severe pediatric cases reported.

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Who’s Who

Pfizer: The article does not mention Pfizer specifically. However, it states that the Hong Kong government is offering mRNA vaccines targeting the JN.1 subvariant beginning November 2023. Pfizer is known for producing mRNA Covid-19 vaccines globally, but the article does not clarify which company's mRNA vaccine is being used for the current vaccination campaign in Hong Kong.

Moderna: The article does not mention Moderna by name. However, it notes that Hong Kong began offering mRNA vaccines targeting the JN.1 subvariant for free to eligible groups, replacing earlier XBB-specific vaccines. Moderna is a manufacturer of mRNA Covid-19 vaccines, so its vaccine may be among those used, but the article does not specify which brands are provided in Hong Kong’s current vaccination campaign.

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