A new surge of COVID-19 is sweeping across much of Southeast and East Asia, with Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand all seeing a marked increase in cases. Country by country, it is not uniform, but overall it is trending towards one fact COVID-19 is still very much here, and it's again on the increase.
But are you concerned? Let's dissect what's occurring, why cases are increasing, and what health experts are advising.
Where Are COVID-19 Cases Rising in Asia?
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is officially caught in the grip of a second wave of COVID-19. The rate of positive respiratory samples has surged from 1.7% in March to 11.4% in recent weeks, even higher than the peak of August 2024. The most severe cases and deaths are being seen in older persons with pre-existing conditions.
Singapore
In the first week of May, Singapore saw a 28% increase in weekly COVID-19 infections, with levels jumping to 14,200 cases and a 30% rise in hospitalisations per day. The Ministry of Health said that this increase is more likely to be caused by declining immunity and not by the arrival of a more lethal strain.
China
China is also seeing a resurgent spike in cases, with infection rates reaching levels comparable to last summer's peak. China's CDC has seen a substantial increase in test positivity rates, well over double in recent weeks.
Thailand
Thailand has seen increased COVID activity following the Songkran festival in April. Health authorities have confirmed two cluster outbreaks and are actively monitoring the situation.
Why Are COVID-19 Cases Going Up Again?
The main cause seems to be declining immunity. With the passage of time since individuals' previous vaccination or natural infection, their immunity particularly against mild or moderate disease decreases. In Singapore, for example, most people who had been treated for COVID-19 symptoms hadn't received a booster shot in more than a year. This trend may be prevalent in other impacted nations as well.
There is no yet available evidence that the recently discovered variants such as LF.7 and NB.1.8 both associated with the JN.1 lineage are more infectious or more severe than previous variants.
What Are Health Authorities Saying?
Here's what governments and health officials are doing about it:
- Vaccinations & Boosters: Priority groups, particularly elderly citizens and those with ongoing illnesses, are requested to receive updated booster shots if they have not recently received one.
- Precautionary Measures: Simple precautions like washing hands, mask wearing in crowded areas, and self-isolation when unwell are still being promoted.
- No Panic, No Restrictions: There have been no new lockdowns or emergency restrictions so far. Health systems in the hit countries are managing well.
If you’re generally healthy, vaccinated, and not part of a high-risk group, there’s no major reason to worry at this time. The current wave of COVID-19 in Asia is being managed much like a seasonal flu surge, with most people experiencing only mild symptoms and recovering without complications. However, if you’re over 60, have underlying health conditions, or are immunocompromised, it’s strongly recommended to get a booster shot if it’s been more than a year since your last dose. Wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces and avoiding travel when feeling unwell are also smart preventive steps to protect yourself and others.
COVID-19 has moved from being a global health emergency to an endemic disease very similar to the flu that generates sporadic waves. This recent surge in some regions of Asia is a reminder to remain vigilant, but not panicky.
With new vaccines, simple precautions, and robust healthcare systems, the disease is in hand. Stay informed and take action to keep yourself and others safe.
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