Doctors sound alarm as Hong Kong flu spreads across Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is reporting a rise in influenza cases commonly referred to as the Hong Kong flu, according to local health officials.

As cited by Caliber.Az, infectious disease specialist Damirkhan Chynyeva warned that the illness can lead to serious complications if not properly managed. She explained that the disease often begins with a high fever, which is frequently accompanied by a dry, persistent cough, chest pain, and throat irritation. If the fever does not subside after three days and the cough worsens, or if shortness of breath and chest pain develop, this may signal the onset of complications, primarily affecting the lungs and the cardiovascular system.

Chynyeva stressed that the particular concern is linked to potential damage to the nervous system. In children, high fever can provoke seizures. She noted that complications may develop very rapidly and that self-treatment significantly increases the risk of severe pneumonia, which in some cases can emerge as early as the third day of illness. Beyond respiratory damage, the toxins associated with this strain of influenza can also affect the heart and kidneys, and in severe cases may lead to brain oedema.

The Hong Kong flu is generally associated with the influenza A (H3N2) virus strain, which has been circulating globally for decades and regularly resurfaces during seasonal flu outbreaks.

Worldwide, health authorities report that H3N2-dominant seasons are often linked to higher rates of complications, particularly among children, older adults, and people with chronic conditions. Seasonal influenza continues to cause millions of severe cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths globally each year, according to international public health estimates, underscoring the importance of timely medical care and prevention measures.

Health experts in Kyrgyzstan are urging the public to avoid self-medication and to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms worsen, especially in vulnerable groups.

By Tamilla Hasanova