AMN-USA News | May 16, 2025

HONG KONG / SINGAPORE — Health authorities in Asia are sounding the alarm as COVID-19 cases climb sharply in Hong Kong and Singapore, renewing concerns about a potential summer wave across the region.

In Hong Kong, the positivity rate among respiratory samples has hit its highest point in over a year, according to the city’s Centre for Health Protection. The first week of May alone saw 31 patients in critical condition from COVID-related complications—the highest number reported in a single week since 2023. Authorities also observed a surge in hospitalizations and viral traces in sewage systems, pointing to widespread community transmission.

Meanwhile, Singapore’s Ministry of Health reported a 28% week-over-week increase in COVID cases, totaling more than 14,200 infections in the first week of May. Daily hospitalizations have climbed by around 30%. Officials attribute the rise to waning immunity and note that, while the variants in circulation aren’t necessarily more severe, the uptick warrants public caution.

This is Singapore’s first formal update on COVID-19 figures in nearly a year, signaling a potential shift back toward public data transparency as infections climb.

Residents in both cities—especially seniors and high-risk individuals—are urged to stay up-to-date with booster shots and monitor symptoms. Despite the summer season, health experts warn that the virus is not showing signs of seasonal slowdown.

The spike in cases has already affected major events. In Taiwan, popular Hong Kong singer Eason Chan was forced to cancel multiple concerts after testing positive for COVID-19.

Across the region, China is also experiencing an upward trend, with the Chinese CDC reporting more than double the number of positive tests between late March and early May. Thailand has likewise issued public health advisories and ramped up its vaccination campaign.

Health authorities continue to stress the importance of vaccination, masking in crowded spaces, and hygiene as core tools to minimize the impact of the new surge.

“The virus is adapting—and so must we,” said a Singaporean health official.

Source: Adapted from Hindustan Times