How Hong Kong Flu Begins: Doctor Explains the Symptoms

Hong Kong flu can be recognized by the sudden onset of infection, a sharp rise in body temperature, and chills, according to Svetlana Vakhrusheva, PhD in Medicine, speaking to RIA Novosti.

The doctor noted that the symptoms of Hong Kong flu do not differ significantly from other types of flu: the infection begins rapidly, body temperature rises above 38°C (100.4°F), chills appear, muscles and joints ache, there is severe headache, eye movement may be painful, and in some cases, a dry cough develops.

Earlier, Dr. Elena Khegai explained that Hong Kong flu (H3N2) is one of the seasonal strains circulating worldwide each year. This flu strain carries a slightly higher risk of complications for people in risk groups — the elderly, pregnant women, and patients with chronic illnesses.

The H3N2 flu is historically known for its severity: the first Hong Kong flu pandemic of 1968–1970 caused an estimated 1–4 million deaths worldwide.

According to Kazakhstan’s Minister of Health, Akmaral Alnazarova, following simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of infection. She recommended limiting visits to crowded places, ventilating rooms regularly, using hand sanitizers or disinfecting wipes, and keeping children at home instead of sending them to school or kindergarten if symptoms of acute respiratory infections or flu appear.