COVID-19 cases are once again surging in the financial hubs of Hong Kong and Singapore after a relatively calm period, signalling a fresh wave of infections across parts of Asia.
Health authorities attribute the rise to declining population-level immunity and lower booster shot uptake among the elderly. While the situation does not currently reflect a return to peak pandemic conditions, both cities are witnessing signs of widespread community transmission.
Spike in Singapore: Cases and Hospitalisations on the Rise
In Singapore, the Ministry of Health recorded 14,200 COVID-19 cases in the week ending May 3, a jump from 11,100 the week before. Hospital admissions also rose by around 30% over the same period.
While reduced immunity is likely a major contributing factor, Singapore’s health ministry clarified that there is currently “no indication that the circulating variants are more transmissible — or cause more severe cases — than during the pandemic.”
Two subvariants, LF.7 and NB.1.8 — both stemming from the JN.1 strain, which newer COVID-19 vaccines target — are currently circulating in the country. These updated vaccines have not yet been made available in India.
Hong Kong Reports Highest Positivity in a Year
Hong Kong has reported a steep rise in COVID-19 infections, with health officials flagging the highest respiratory sample positivity rate in a year. Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch at the Centre for Health Protection, described the situation as “quite high.”
The city registered 31 COVID-related deaths in the week ending May 3, marking a one-year high. Rising viral loads in sewage samples and an increase in COVID-related hospital visits indicate widespread transmission in the densely populated city of over 7 million.
Respiratory samples testing positive for COVID-19 increased to 13.66% in the week ending May 10, compared to 6.21% four weeks ago, as reported by Indian Express.
Indian Experts Urge Caution but Dismiss Panic
Despite the alarming rise in infections in East Asia, Indian virologists and health experts remain cautiously optimistic. Speaking to News18, they emphasised that India is unlikely to see a severe wave thanks to existing immunity levels.
“There is no cause for panic,” experts stated, noting that most people in India have strong protection against severe illness. However, they warned that mild infections mimicking cold or flu symptoms are still possible.
They advised continued adherence to basic preventive measures, especially for high-risk groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health issues.
As global attention returns to the virus amid fresh outbreaks, health experts continue to emphasise the importance of booster shots, timely medical attention, and awareness to prevent another widespread health crisis.
