JNS: A fresh wave of COVID-19 is sweeping through parts of Asia, with major cities like Hong Kong and Singapore witnessing a rapid spike in infections, prompting renewed health alerts.
In Hong Kong, authorities are reporting the highest COVID-19 positivity rate since last year. Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch at the Centre for Health Protection, confirmed a surge in cases, with 31 severe infections recorded in the week ending May 3. Hospitals are also seeing increased patient traffic, and traces of the virus have been detected in sewage samples—clear signs of community spread.
Singapore is also experiencing a sharp rise. According to the country’s health ministry, COVID-19 cases jumped by 28% to approximately 14,200 in the first week of May, while hospital admissions surged by 30%. This marks Singapore’s first major case update in nearly a year. Officials attribute the increase partly to waning immunity but noted no evidence of more infectious or severe variants.
Across Asia, health departments are urging citizens—especially vulnerable groups—to get vaccinated and receive booster shots. The summer surge is defying earlier seasonal patterns, signaling the virus’s persistent threat.
China and Thailand are also reporting notable upticks. In China, COVID-19 test positivity rates have more than doubled over five weeks through May 4, nearing last summer’s peak. Thailand saw two major outbreaks linked to April’s Songkran festival, which draws large crowds.
Even pop culture isn’t spared: Hong Kong singer Eason Chan tested positive, forcing him to postpone his Taiwan concerts.
As COVID-19 shows renewed strength, officials stress vigilance, vaccination, and timely medical attention to contain further spread.
