New Delhi: A fresh wave of COVID-19 is sweeping across parts of Southeast Asia, with Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand all reporting a noticeable rise in infections. Singapore, in particular, has seen a 28 per cent increase in cases over the past year, with 14,200 cases recorded as of May 3.
This resurgence appears to be linked to a fresh wave of the virus spreading across Asia. In China, cases are nearing last summer’s peak, while Thailand has seen an uptick following the April Songkran Festival. As the situation unfolds, it’s essential to take extra precautions to stay safe.
Which countries are reporting a spike in COVID-19 Cases?
Hong Kong: Health officials have confirmed that Hong Kong is experiencing a new wave of COVID-19. The percentage of respiratory samples testing positive has jumped from 1.7% in March to 11.4%—even higher than during the August 2024 peak. Hong Kong has reported 81 severe cases, resulting in 30 deaths, most of whom were elderly individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Singapore: Singapore has seen a 28% spike in COVID cases in early May, with weekly infections rising to 14,200 and daily hospitalisations increasing by about 30%. At present, ‘LF.7’ and ‘NB.1.8’ — both descendants of the ‘JN.1’ variant — are the main variants of the COVID-19-causing virus circulating in Singapore. The daily hospitalisations increased from 102 to 133, but daily ICU admissions declined slightly from 3 to 2.
China: China’s COVID numbers are climbing again, nearing the peak levels seen during last summer’s wave. Testing positivity rates have more than doubled in recent weeks, according to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Thailand: In Thailand, cases have risen following the Songkran festival in April. Two cluster outbreaks have been reported, and health authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
