A fresh wave of COVID-19 infections is spreading rapidly across Asia, with health authorities in Hong Kong, Singapore, and other regions raising alarms over a sharp rise in cases and hospital admissions.
Hong Kong Reports ‘High’ COVID Activity
Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection has reported a significant uptick in COVID-19 infections. Dr. Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch, stated that virus activity in the city is currently “quite high.”
The percentage of respiratory samples testing positive for COVID-19 has reached levels not seen since last year. In the week ending May 3, the city recorded 31 severe cases, nearing peak figures from previous waves. Additionally, rising viral traces in sewage and increasing clinic visits are further signs of community spread.
Singapore Sees 28% Spike in Cases
Singapore is also witnessing a COVID resurgence. The country’s Ministry of Health, in its first update in nearly a year, confirmed that cases rose by 28% to approximately 14,200 in the week ending May 3. Hospitalizations due to COVID-19 jumped by 30% over the same period.
Officials suggest the increase may be due to waning immunity, though they found no evidence of more infectious or dangerous new variants.
COVID Surge Continues Across Asia
The rise in infections is not limited to Hong Kong and Singapore. Across Asia, COVID-19 has been making a quiet comeback in recent months. Health agencies are urging the public—especially the elderly and immunocompromised—to stay up to date with their booster vaccinations.
In China, the test positivity rate has more than doubled over the five weeks through May 4, Bloomberg reported, with infections projected to near last summer’s peak.
Thailand’s Disease Control Department also confirmed two major outbreaks earlier this year. A notable surge followed the mid-April Songkran festival, which involves large public gatherings.
COVID Returns Despite Summer Heat
Experts are concerned about the timing of this resurgence, as summer typically sees a decline in viral infections. The current trend suggests that COVID-19 could remain a persistent threat year-round.
In a notable incident, popular Hong Kong singer Eason Chan tested positive for COVID-19, forcing the postponement of his scheduled concerts in Taiwan, according to his Weibo social media account.