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Time of India
20-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Covid cases rising in Singapore, India: What's JN.1 variant driving the surge, its symptoms, severity, precautions and vaccine response
Covid Cases: JN.1 variant behind the current surge WHO monitoring the variant Live Events You Might Also Like: Another Covid wave coming? Hong Kong and Singapore report sharp jump in cases as virus detected in sewage water Covid JN.1 Symptoms and severity Covid Variants in circulation Covid JN.1 Vaccine effectiveness You Might Also Like: Shilpa Shirodkar tests COVID positive: What you need to know as cases begin to reappear Covid JN.1 precautions What about Covid in India? (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel As COVID-19 cases rise in parts of Asia, especially Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Thailand, health authorities are monitoring the JN.1 variant. This variant, a sublineage of the Omicron strain, has become widespread in many regions. While there is no evidence yet of a fresh wave in India, health officials are watching the situation closely. However, over 200 cases have been detected in India so far. Actor Shilpa Shirodkar, who was a familiar face in popular 1990s films, also announced that she was tested positive for has reported a notable increase in infections, with an estimated 14,200 cases in the week ending May 3 — up from 11,100 the week before. Hospitalisations have risen by about 30%. In Hong Kong, officials say the virus has reached a "quite high" level. Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch at the Centre for Health Protection, said the positivity rate in respiratory samples is the highest in a year. The city also recorded 31 COVID-19 related deaths in that week, the most in the last 12 is a descendant of the BA.2.86 (Pirola) strain, which itself carried many mutations. It was first identified in late 2023 and has since spread to countries including the US, UK, India, Singapore and Hong sets JN.1 apart is a unique mutation in the spike protein — the part of the virus that binds to human cells. This may allow the virus to spread more easily and possibly escape immunity from vaccines or past World Health Organization has marked JN.1 as a "variant of interest." This classification means it is being closely observed but does not yet show signs of causing more severe disease than other infections have mostly been mild to moderate, with symptoms similar to earlier Omicron strains. These include sore throat, cough, fever, fatigue and a runny nose. In some cases, people may experience conjunctivitis, diarrhoea, or mild stomach its high transmissibility, there is no clear evidence that JN.1 leads to more serious illness. However, people at higher risk — such as older adults, those with weakened immune systems, or chronic health issues — may face Singapore, health officials said two subvariants of JN.1 — LF.7 and NB.1.8 — are responsible for about two-thirds of locally sequenced cases. The increase may also be linked to waning immunity in the vaccines, especially the updated bivalent and monovalent mRNA ones, still provide protection against severe illness, hospitalisation, and death due to JN.1. They may be less effective at preventing mild or symptomless infection. Boosters updated for newer variants continue to play a key role in raising antibody are advised to follow basic precautions to reduce the risk of infection. These include wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, washing hands regularly with soap, avoiding close contact with people showing symptoms, and staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and booster doses. Those with symptoms such as fever, cough, or sore throat should stay home, monitor their health, and seek medical advice if of May 19, India has 257 active COVID-19 cases, up from 93 the previous Friday. Doctors in Mumbai have reported a small increase in mild cases, mainly among younger people. However, there is no indication of a major rise in agency PTI quoted official sources saying, 'The current coronavirus situation in the country was under control,' though authorities are 'keeping an eye on reports of a rise in Covid cases in Singapore and Hong Kong.'India continues to monitor respiratory infections through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Hospitals have been advised to track cases of influenza-like illnesses and severe respiratory infections.
News18
18-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Covid-19 Surges Again In Hong Kong, Singapore: What's Causing The Spike?
Last Updated: According to health authorities, the increase in infections are likely because of waning population level immunity to the infection and fewer elderly getting their booster shots. Covid Cases in Asia: After a period of relative calm, Covid-19 infections are once again surging in densely populated financial hubs of Hong Kong and Singapore. The surge in cases has signalled a resurgent wave across Asia. According to the health authorities, the increase in infections are likely because of waning population level immunity to the infection and fewer elderly getting their booster shots. Cases In Singapore Singapore is on high alert as the estimated number of Covid-19 cases in the week ending on May 3 went up to 14,200 from 11,100 a week before. Daily hospitalisations also saw a roughly 30% increase. While factors such as waning population immunity could be contributing to the increase, Singapore's health ministry stated that there is currently 'no indication that the circulating variants are more transmissible — or cause more severe cases — than during the pandemic." The health authority added that LF.7 and NB.1.8 — both descendants of JN.1 variant that is used in new Covid-19 vaccines — were circulating in the country. These newer vaccines are unavailable in India. Cases In Hong Kong In Hong Kong, the virus has surged to a 'quite high" level, according to Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch at the city's Centre for Health Protection. The percentage of respiratory samples testing positive has reached its highest point in a year, accompanied by a rise in severe cases and fatalities. In the week ending May 3, 31 deaths were reported, marking a one-year high. Although the current wave hasn't hit the peaks seen in previous years, rising viral loads in sewage samples and increased Covid-related hospital visits and consultations point to widespread community transmission in the densely populated city of over 7 million. It has also seen an increase in Sars-CoV-2 viral load in sewage samples and an increase in respiratory samples testing positive for Covid-19, increasing to 13.66% in the week ending on May 10 as compared to 6.21 per cent four weeks ago, reported Indian Express. Indian Experts Urge Caution, Not Panic While the likelihood of a severe wave in India is minimal, staying alert remains a wise precaution, virologists and health experts told News18. Indian experts advise that there is no cause for panic, as the population largely has immunity against severe Covid-19. However, mild infections can still occur, often resembling common cold or flu symptoms. Therefore, it remains important to follow time-tested precautions during periods of active virus circulation — especially protecting children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. Watch India Pakistan Breaking News on CNN-News18. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from geopolitics to diplomacy and global trends. Stay informed with the latest world news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated!
Economic Times
18-05-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
The pandemic isn't over: New COVID cases are on the rise in Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian countries - should you be worried?
Covid-19 wave in Asia is making headlines again as cases spike in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand, raising new concerns. Despite the summer season, when viruses usually decline, these regions are reporting higher hospitalizations and test positivity rates. Hong Kong logged 31 severe cases in just one week, while Singapore saw a 28% rise in infections. China and Thailand are also on alert after fresh outbreaks. Health experts urge booster vaccinations for high-risk groups. With Covid showing no signs of disappearing, this update gives you all the key facts you need to stay informed and prepared. Covid-19 returns across Asia as Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand report rising infections. Learn why cases are surging again in 2025, what's causing concern, and how booster vaccines can help. Stay alert and updated today. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Why are Hong Kong's Covid-19 numbers rising again? Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads What's behind the 28% spike in Covid-19 cases in Singapore? Are China and Thailand seeing similar Covid trends? Is India experiencing a new Covid-19 wave too? Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads What does this mean for Asia's Covid-19 future? FAQs: Covid-19 is making a quiet comeback in Asia, with fresh waves of infection being reported in several countries. While many thought the worst was behind us, new data shows that Covid-19 is still very much active — even during a time of year when respiratory illnesses usually slow down. In major cities like Hong Kong and Singapore, health authorities are now on alert following a sharp rise in cases. At the same time, China and Thailand are also battling new outbreaks, prompting public health advisories and fresh calls for booster Kong is seeing its highest Covid-19 positivity rate in over a year. According to Albert Au, head of the Centre for Health Protection's Communicable Disease Branch, the percentage of positive respiratory samples has reached new highs. In the week ending May 3, the city recorded 31 severe Covid-19 cases, the most in a single week over the past 12 officials are also tracking rising viral concentrations in sewage samples, a strong signal that community transmission is spreading. More residents are now seeking care at hospitals and clinics for Covid-related symptoms, marking a noticeable uptick in public the entertainment industry has been affected — popular Hong Kong singer Eason Chan tested positive for Covid-19, which led to the cancellation of his concerts in Taiwan. His infection has drawn public attention to the growing crisis and reinforced the need for personal Ministry of Health recently reported a 28% increase in Covid-19 cases for the week ending May 3, with an estimated 14,200 new infections. Covid-related hospital admissions are also up by about 30% during the same especially notable is that this is Singapore's first major update on Covid case numbers in almost a year — a move the city-state usually reserves for major authorities have ruled out the emergence of new, more dangerous variants. Instead, they believe the current surge is due to waning immunity in the population. The Ministry clarified that there's no evidence of increased virulence in the current are now urging older adults and immunocompromised individuals to get their Covid-19 booster shots, as these groups remain the most vulnerable to severe both China and Thailand are seeing renewed Covid activity. In mainland China, the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) reported that Covid test positivity rates in hospitals more than doubled over the five weeks leading up to May 4. This sharp rise suggests that China may be headed for a wave similar to last in Thailand, two major outbreaks have already occurred this year. The most recent spike followed Songkran, Thailand's traditional New Year festival in April. Large gatherings during this public holiday likely contributed to the virus's spread, according to the Department of Disease in both countries are now encouraging the public to get vaccinated and take booster doses, especially for those in high-risk at the moment. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India currently has just 93 active Covid-19 cases. Officials say there's no indication of a new wave in the country — at least for given the uptick in cases across neighboring Asian countries, Indian health experts are monitoring the situation closely. The regional surge is a reminder that conditions can shift quickly, and complacency could leave populations current rise in Covid-19 cases across Asia — especially during the warmer months — challenges previous assumptions about the virus's seasonality. Many had hoped Covid would follow patterns similar to the flu, which usually fades in summer. But that doesn't seem to be the case like Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand are now stepping up efforts to share data, coordinate public health messaging, and promote booster wave is a clear sign: Covid-19 is not over. While we've come a long way since 2020, the virus still has the power to disrupt daily life and strain healthcare systems — especially when populations let their guard cases are rising due to waning immunity and increased travel and Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand are seeing fresh spikes in Covid-19 cases.
Hans India
17-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Hong Kong, Singapore on alert as Covid cases spike
Hong Kong/Singapore: Health authorities in densely-populated Hong Kong and Singapore have warned that Covid-19 cases are spiking, as a resurgent wave spreads through Asia. The virus' activity in Hong Kong is now "quite high," Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch of the city's Center for Health Protection, told the media this week. The percentage of respiratory samples testing Covid-positive in Hong Kong recently reached its highest in a year, Au added. The centre's data showed that severe cases reached their highest level in about a year, at 31, in the week through 3 May. Also, the resurgence has yet to match the infection peaks of the previous two years. The rising viral load found in sewage water and Covid-related medical consultations and hospitalisations suggest the virus is actively spreading in the city of over 7 million people. Meanwhile in Singapore, in its first update on infection numbers in almost a year, this month, the city's state health ministry estimated the number of Covid-19 cases jumped 28 per cent to 14,200 in the week through May 3 from the previous seven days, while daily hospitalisation rose around 30 per cent. Experts predict that the increase in cases may have occurred due to factors including waning population immunity, but Singapore's health ministry said there is no indication that the circulating variants are more transmissible. The hike in two of Asia's most significant cities comes as Covid-19 has risen across the region in the past few months, with waves of the now-endemic disease swelling periodically. Health authorities have called on people to update their vaccinations, reminding high-risk individuals to get booster shots. Unlike other respiratory pathogens, Covid-19's comeback as the northern hemisphere enters summer shows the virus can still sicken a large swath of the population even when the weather is hot.
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Business Standard
16-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Covid-19 wave returns in Asia, cases increase in Hong Kong, Singapore
Covid-19 cases are rising sharply across Asia, with Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand reporting spikes. However, despite rising cases elsewhere in Asia, India has not reported any increase New Delhi Signalling a concerning resurgence of the virus that first emerged over five years ago, Covid-19 cases are rising once again across several parts of Asia. Densely-populated financial centres such as Hong Kong and Singapore have reported significant increases in infections, while health agencies in China and Thailand are also grappling with fresh outbreaks. Despite previous periods of relative stability, the current wave is unfolding in a season when respiratory viruses usually subside. Following a marked increase in Covid-19 cases, Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection has issued a public alert. Albert Au, head of the Centre's Communicable Disease Branch, has said that the percentage of respiratory samples testing positive for the virus have reached its highest level since last year. In the week ending May 3, Hong Kong recorded 31 severe cases — the highest weekly total reported in a year. Apart from the rise in positive test results, viral concentrations in sewage samples have also climbed, according to local media reports. Simultaneously, a growing number of residents are seeking hospital or clinic care for Covid-related symptoms. The city's entertainment sector has not been spared either. Prominent Hong Kong singer Eason Chan has tested positive for the virus, prompting the cancellation of his concerts in Taiwan. His infection has drawn public attention to the resurgence and reinforced calls for vigilance. Singapore reports 28% increase in Covid-19 cases Singapore's Ministry of Health reported a 28 per cent increase in Covid-19 cases for the week ending May 3, with estimated infections rising to 14,200. Hospital admissions due to the virus have also increased by about 30 per cent. This marks the country's first significant update on case numbers in nearly a year — a move Singapore typically reserves for periods of major surges. Officials attributed the current spike to waning immunity among the population rather than to any emergence of new, more transmissible or severe variants. The ministry clarified that there is no indication of greater virulence in the strains currently circulating. The fact that this surge is occurring during the summer months raises further concern. Authorities have encouraged those at higher risk, particularly the elderly or immunocompromised individuals, to take booster shots of the Covid vaccine to bolster their protection. Rising cases across the region Beyond Hong Kong and Singapore, other Asian nations are also experiencing renewed Covid-19 activity. In mainland China, the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention reported that Covid test positivity rates in hospitals more than doubled in the five weeks leading up to May 4. The increase suggests that the country could face another wave of infections similar in scale to last summer. Thailand's Department of Disease Control has reported two significant Covid-19 outbreaks so far this year. A notable increase in infections followed the Songkran festival in April — a major public holiday known for large gatherings and celebrations, which may have facilitated the virus's spread. The widespread nature of the surge has prompted health authorities across the region to call upon the public to update their Covid vaccinations and remain alert. Particular emphasis is being placed on booster doses for high-risk groups. No new wave in India — for now Despite rising cases elsewhere in Asia, India has not reported any significant increase. According to the official dashboard of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the country currently has only 93 active cases of Covid-19. Authorities have confirmed that no new wave of the virus has been detected so far. Nevertheless, the evolving situation in neighbouring regions serves as a reminder that conditions can change rapidly. The pandemic is not over? The latest resurgence of Covid-19 across Asia is a stark reminder that the virus remains a public health threat, even as many countries have lowered their guards. The recent rise in infections, despite it being warmer, contradicts earlier assumptions about Covid's seasonal behaviour and underscores its ability to defy predictable patterns. With countries like Hong Kong and Singapore seeing marked spikes, and China and Thailand reporting troubling trends, regional cooperation, timely data sharing, and proactive vaccination campaigns remain critical.
