Health officials in Hong Kong and Singapore are sounding the alarm over a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases as a new wave spreads across Asia, according to Bloomberg.
In Hong Kong, Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch at the Centre for Health Protection, described Covid-19 activity as "quite high." Though this surge is not as large as the peaks seen during the worst waves in previous years, multiple indicators signal increased spread. The number of positive respiratory samples reached a peak last year, with severe cases and deaths also peaking then—31 severe cases were reported in the week ending May 3. Presently, Covid presence in sewage water has risen, and more people are seeking hospital and clinic care for symptoms consistent with Covid.
Singapore is also facing a notable uptick. The country’s health ministry, which reports case numbers only when there is a clear rise, recorded a 28% increase in Covid cases over the week ending May 3, reaching around 14,200 cases. Hospital admissions due to Covid jumped about 30%. The ministry suggested that waning immunity in the population might be contributing to this rise but noted there is no evidence of newer, more infectious or severe strains currently circulating.
Across Asia, Covid infections have been climbing for months, with recurrent waves emerging periodically. Health authorities emphasize the importance of vaccinations, especially booster doses for vulnerable groups, to mitigate the impact of the virus.
The surge occurring during summer—when many respiratory viruses usually weaken—indicates that Covid-19 remains highly contagious year-round.
Notably, Hong Kong pop star Eason Chan tested positive for Covid, leading to the postponement of his Taiwan concerts.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg reports that China is experiencing a new Covid wave, with test positivity rates more than doubling over five weeks through May 4, approaching last summer’s peak levels.
Thailand also reported two significant outbreaks this year. Cases rose notably after the Songkran festival in April, a period marked by large gatherings, according to the country’s Department of Disease Control.
Overall, the resurgence in cases across these countries highlights ongoing Covid challenges in Asia, reinforcing calls for continued vigilance, vaccination, and public health measures.
