Barbie Hsu’s death: Understanding what makes flu deadly

The Shocking Death of ‘Meteor Garden’ Star Barbie Hsu Highlights the Seriousness of the Flu

MANILA, Philippines – The sudden passing of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu on Monday, February 3, has left fans in shock. The beloved star, known for her role as Shan Cai in Meteor Garden, was only 48 years old.

Hsu had traveled to Japan with her family to celebrate the Lunar New Year when she contracted influenza. Unfortunately, her condition worsened, leading to pneumonia, which ultimately proved fatal.

Many people often dismiss the flu as a minor illness that resolves within a few days. However, flu cases tend to spike between December and February, particularly during colder seasons like winter or amihan in the Philippines.

Why Should the Flu Be Taken Seriously?

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that while a billion people contract seasonal influenza annually, 3 to 5 million cases become severe. Additionally, the virus is responsible for an estimated 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory-related deaths each year.

Flu symptoms typically include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. While most individuals recover without complications, some cases can escalate to severe pneumonia. This condition causes fluid buildup in the lungs, making it difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream—an issue that can become life-threatening.

Hsu's passing underscores the dangers of the flu, prompting Filipino doctor Edsel Maurice Salvana to remind the public about the importance of preventive measures.

How Can We Protect Ourselves?

Dr. Salvana emphasized that flu vaccinations are crucial. While the flu shot doesn’t guarantee complete immunity, it significantly reduces the risk of severe complications such as pneumonia. He also highlighted the importance of vaccination for vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

“For those who aren’t immunocompromised, getting the vaccine is still beneficial as it lowers the risk of spreading the virus to those who are at higher risk,” Salvana stated. “Vaccines and masks aren’t 100% foolproof, but they greatly reduce the chances of severe illness and could be the difference between life and death.”

Beyond vaccination, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends simple yet effective measures to prevent infection:

• Avoid close contact with people who have coughs or colds
• Wear a mask when around sick individuals
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Improve ventilation at home by opening windows, doors, or using exhaust fans

Hsu’s legacy as an actress lives on, particularly through Meteor Garden, the show that played a pivotal role in popularizing Asian dramas across the region, including the Philippines. Her tragic passing serves as a sobering reminder that even common illnesses like the flu can have devastating consequences.