​The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (February 25) announced the latest epidemic situation of COVID-19. As of 0.00am, February 25, the CHP was investigating 3 825 additional confirmed cases, 318 additional asymptomatic cases and 5 867 cases with pending case status in the past 24 hours (i.e. there were 10 010 additional cases that tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus in those 24 hours). Hong Kong has recorded a total of 94 056 cases that tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus so far.
The newly reported cases consist of four imported cases and 10 006 locally acquired cases. The CHP is continuing with epidemiological investigations on the cases.
As at 4pm today, a total of 65 252 cases that tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus had been reported in the past 14 days (February 11 to 24), including 65 163 locally acquired cases and 89 imported cases. A list of buildings related to the cases is available at the "COVID-19 Thematic Website" (www.coronavirus.gov.hk).
In addition, among the earlier cases reported, there were cases (including pending cases) changed to confirmed, asymptomatic or re-positive cases. As at yesterday (February 24), the total number of confirmed cases was 35 067, while the figures for asymptomatic cases, re-positive cases, pending/unknown cases recorded since January 1 were 5 392, 10 and 43 577 respectively.
​​​​The spokesman for the CHP stressed that the local situation of COVID-19 infection became severe recently and there is a continuous increase in the number of cases involving mutant strains that carry higher transmissibility. With the higher transmissibility and risk of infection of the Omicron mutant strain, the CHP strongly appeals to the community to continue to comply with the social distancing measures, avoid going out and refrain from participating in unnecessary or crowded activities or gatherings (particularly religious or cross-family activities and gatherings). This would lower the risk of infection and prevent the virus from spreading in the community.
The spokesman reminded that COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe cases and deaths from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. They can provide effective protection to those vaccinated in preventing serious complications and even death after infection. People who are yet to receive vaccination, especially senior citizens, chronic patients and other immunocompromised persons who face a higher chance of death after COVID-19 infection, should get vaccinated as early as possible for self-protection and to reduce the risk of falling seriously ill and death should they get infected. Meanwhile, a person who gets COVID-19 and influenza at the same time may be more seriously ill and would have a higher risk of death. Influenza vaccination may reduce the likelihood of hospitalisation and the length of stay. In addition, seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for all persons aged 6 months or above except those with known contraindications. Persons at higher risk of getting influenza and its complications, including the elderly and children, should receive seasonal influenza vaccination early. Please see details of the vaccination schemes on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/17980.html).
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