By now, you might have heard of the tragic death of Taiwanese star, Barbie Hsu.
The former actress, known by her stage name Star S, passed away at the age of 48 due to flu-pneumonia-related disease on 2 February 2025.
Since her death, many fans and celebrities have been shocked.
The Meteor Garden star died from pneumonia after contracting influenza during a trip to Japan with her family, as reported by Channel News Asia.
Hsu reportedly visited multiple hospitals in Japan before her tragic death.
Feeling unwell since 29 January 2025, she sought medical care at three facilities before hospitalisation on 1 February, passing away the following day. Her body will be cremated in Japan, with plans for burial in Taiwan.
What is Flu-Related Pneumonia?
Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. It is different from the common cold, which mainly affects the nose and throat.
Colds often cause a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, sore throat, and coughing, while the flu usually brings more serious symptoms that affect the whole body.
You can watch this video to learn more about the infection.
Demand for Flu Vaccine Skyrocketed in Hong Kong & Taiwan After Barbie Hsu’s Passing
Following Barbie Hsu’s passing, demand for flu vaccines has skyrocketed in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Hong Kong family doctor Lam Wing-wo told The Standard that there was a 30 per cent increase in vaccination inquiries, with many previously hesitant individuals now seeking protection against the virus.
Fortunately, he has confirmed with pharmaceutical companies that there are sufficient vaccine supplies in Hong Kong.
In Taiwan, the government’s free vaccine supply quickly diminished by 40,000 doses, leaving 160,000 doses available by Tuesday.
Some regions have already exhausted their supplies, prompting Health and Welfare Minister Chiu Tai-yuan to advocate prioritizing high-risk groups, especially the elderly.
Despite the depletion, over two million doses remain available, although Taipei’s Department of Health predicts imminent depletion of the free supply.
The Department of Health has reported a significant increase in on-site flu vaccinations at schools this year, with 98 per cent of schools having completed or scheduled shots.
However, vaccination rates among children aged six months to under two years remain worryingly low at around 20 per cent, risking severe complications like encephalitis.
To enhance HPV vaccination rates, the Department of Health extended the school enrollment period and introduced a catch-up program targeting girls in secondary five and above for the 2024-25 school year.
This initiative aims to protect young women under 20 from HPV-related health risks.
Japan’s Influenza Crisis
Since Hsu’s passing, discussions on the severity of influenza in Japan have surfaced from several organisations and healthcare professionals.
A Thai doctor advised reconsidering travel plans to Japan, citing the country’s significant influenza outbreak, with 9.523 million cases reported over the past 144 days.
Osaka, in particular, has seen concerning numbers, averaging 29.64 new cases per precinct from 29 January to 4 February.
Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reported its most substantial influenza outbreak in 25 years during the week of 23 to 29 December 2024, with 317,812 cases.
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