Have you noticed an increase in illness since the lifting of the mask mandate in Hong Kong in early March? Children and seniors are particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases after removing their masks. After all, they have relied on masks for protection against viruses for the past three years, and they have relatively weaker immune systems. Suddenly taking off their mask may give viruses a chance to invade their bodies.

Although COVID-19 infections or severe cases have not significantly increased since the mask mandate was lifted, statistics show a rise in infectious diseases. Experts recommend wearing masks in crowded places, on public transportation and when visiting hospitals. By taking these simple precautions, we can reduce the spread of infectious diseases and stay healthy during the peak season.

Three common infectious diseases in Hong Kong

Flu

Since the mask mandate was lifted in Hong Kong, there have been small outbreaks of the flu in some schools. Students were getting symptoms like high fever, weakness, sore throat, and runny nose, which could be as bad as COVID-19. Since the flu virus strains change every year, people with weak immune systems should get vaccinated against seasonal flu every year to keep infections at bay.

Pneumococcal infection

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a common bacterium living in the upper respiratory tract that causes pneumonia, otitis media, sinusitis, meningitis and other diseases. It can also lead to various complications and even death. This bacterium is transmitted through droplets, so high-risk individuals including children (especially those under 2 years old) and seniors (65 years old and above) should be extra careful.

The good news is that the government has different vaccine programs to fight against the infection. Eligible children and seniors can receive a 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) or a 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (23vPPV) to largely lower the chances of getting sick and having complications.

Pertussis

Pertussis is caused by Bordetella pertussis and transmitted through droplets. The early symptoms may not be noticeable, and could just be a runny nose or mild cough. But the coughing will then worsen and is followed by a "whoop" sound, which is why it’s also called "whooping cough”. If left untreated, the bacteria can infect the lungs and cause severe pneumonia.

Pertussis is way more contagious than COVID-19, and some patients might cough so hard that they break a rib or vomit. To protect yourself and your family against pertussis, children in Hong Kong can get a free vaccine while the elderly should also get vaccinated and receive a booster shot every ten years.