More than 5 years after COVID-19 pandemic was declared a global pandemic, the world has continued to navigate the virus' existence, in varying capacities throughout the world. While the general opinion is that world over, people have attained immunity to the virus (since everyone has got it at some point, though they may not know it), new cases continue to rise intermittently, raising some concerns.


Singapore and Hong Kong see cases
Recently, Singapore and Hong Kong have recently reported a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases. This new wave has raised concerns among health authorities and the public alike. Let's find out more...

What does data say?
In early May 2025, Singapore saw a significant increase in COVID-19 infections. The number of cases jumped from around 11,100 in the last week of April.to about 14,200 cases in the first week of May-a 28% rise in just one week. Hospitalizations also increased by roughly 30% during this period. Similarly, Hong Kong is experiencing its highest COVID-19 activity in a year, with a rising number of severe cases and deaths reported. The city recorded 31 COVID-related deaths in the week ending May 3, marking a one-year high.

Quick spread
Both cities are densely populated, which helps explain why the virus is spreading quickly. Additionally, sewage surveillance in both places has detected high levels of the virus, confirming widespread community transmission.

Is it a new variant?
The current surge is mainly driven by new variants related to the Omicron JN.1 strain. In Singapore, two descendants of JN.1 called LF.7 and NB.1.8 are responsible for more than two-thirds of the cases. These variants are also the basis for the latest COVID-19 vaccines available in Singapore, although these newer vaccines are not yet available in some countries like India.

Hong Kong is also seeing a rise in cases linked to Omicron JN.1 variants, contributing to the increased virus activity and hospitalizations.

More dangerous variants?
According to health authorities in Singapore and Hong Kong, there is currently no evidence that these new variants spread more easily or cause more severe illness compared to previous strains. The symptoms remain generally mild to moderate but can still disrupt daily life and strain healthcare systems due to the sheer number of infections.

Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms associated with the new variants are currently evolving, but some common ones include:

Cough and sore throat
Fatigue and muscle aches
Nasal congestion and sneezing
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Conjunctivitis (eye irritation)

Interestingly, loss of taste or smell, which was common in earlier COVID-19 strains, is now less frequent with these variants.

Why the sudden wave?
Experts attribute the surge mainly to waning immunity in the population. Over time, protection from previous infections or vaccinations decreases, allowing the virus to spread more easily. This is especially true for high-risk groups such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying health conditions.


Seasonal factors may also play a role, as some respiratory viruses tend to spread more in certain weather conditions. Additionally, increased social gatherings and travel contribute to transmission.

Closely monitoring
Both Singapore and Hong Kong governments are closely monitoring the situation. Singapore’s Ministry of Health has urged high-risk groups to get booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to strengthen their immunity. They also recommend continuing basic precautions like wearing masks in crowded places, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home when feeling unwell.

Hong Kong’s health officials are similarly alert, emphasizing testing, isolation of positive cases, and vaccination campaigns to control the spread.

Should we be worried?
While the rise in cases in Singapore and Hong Kong is concerning, experts say that the risk of a severe wave in countries with high vaccination rates and prior exposure to COVID-19 is low. Mild infections resembling common cold or flu are more likely, but vulnerable groups should remain cautious.

Countries like India have been advised to stay vigilant but not panic. Following proven safety measures and ensuring booster vaccinations for at-risk populations remain key strategies.

How Can You Protect Yourself?
Get vaccinated: Vaccines continue to protect against severe illness.
Wear masks in crowded or indoor places: This reduces the chance of catching or spreading the virus.
Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap or use sanitizer.
Avoid close contact with sick people: If you feel unwell, stay home and seek medical advice.
Stay informed: Follow updates from reliable health authorities about local COVID-19 trends and guidelines.