Years since the height of the world pandemic, Covid-19 is back in the news again, this time more so in Asia’s economic giants—Singapore and Hong Kong. Recent statistics from health authorities show an alarming trend of increased infections, severe cases, and renewed strain on public health facilities.
Hong Kong Sees ‘Quite High’ Covid Activity
In Hong Kong, the virus has insidiously returned to the public sphere. Albert Au, director of the Communicable Disease Branch of the Center for Health Protection, referred to the level of current virus activity as “quite high.” He spoke with local media this week, affirming that the number of positive respiratory samples had hit its highest level in a year.
Adding to the alarm, severe cases—involving deaths—rose to 31 in the week of May 3, also a one-year high. While the ongoing surge is less virulent than the waves of 2022 and 2023, warning signs are still present. The spiking viral load in sewage samples and a spurt in medical consultations and hospitalizations indicate a fast spread.
Singapore Fights a Sudden Spike in Covid
Singapore, also, is seeing a significant surge. According to official statistics, COVID-19 cases increased 28% within a week to reach 14,200 cases through May 3. The city-state has changed to reporting only when significant surges happen—an in itself disturbing trend.
The Ministry of Health attributed the surge to waning immunity among the populace as one of its major driving factors. Nevertheless, it also assured people that the new variants are not more virulent or contagious than the earlier strains.
Regional Impact and Response
This spike is part of a wider regional pattern, and with alarms ringing now also in mainland China, warnings are being sounded. Statistics from the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention reveal a rise close to last year’s peak, and this suggests Asia may again be faced with a major Covid challenge.
Regional health authorities have called on high-risk groups to get booster shots and continue preventive measures. Asia once again faces the frontline as the war against Covid continues.
