A fresh wave of COVID-19 is sweeping Asia, with Hong Kong and Singapore reporting sharp increases in cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, raising alarms among health officials.

Thailand, China, and the Philippines also face rising infections, driven by variants and post-holiday surges, while India remains largely unaffected with only 93 active cases, per the Ministry of Health.

Hong Kong’s Deadly Surge: Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection recorded 31 severe cases and deaths in the week ending May 3, 2025, the highest since early 2024. The positivity rate for respiratory samples hit a one-year peak, with wastewater surveillance confirming elevated viral loads. Authorities are pushing booster vaccines to curb the resurgence, urging public compliance with health advisories.

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Singapore’s Case Spike: Singapore reported 14,200 new cases in the same week, a 28% jump, with hospitalizations up 30%, straining healthcare systems. The Ministry of Health linked the surge to community transmission and new variants, with wastewater data signaling widespread viral presence. Vaccination and safety protocols are being reinforced.

Thailand’s Post-Festival Wave: Thailand saw 71,067 cases and 19 deaths from January 1 to May 14, 2025, post-Songkran, with the Omicron XEC variant detected. Clusters in multiple provinces prompted stricter monitoring and safety measures.

China and Philippines: China’s test positivity rate doubled over five weeks ending May 4, reflecting increased viral circulation, though inconsistent reporting clouds data. The Philippines, a regional hotspot, reports high daily cases but mild outcomes due to vaccination, with officials wary of healthcare strain.

India’s low case count suggests no immediate wave, but global trends underscore the need for vigilance, vaccination, and robust surveillance to prevent a broader resurgence.

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