Covid-19 Resurges in Asia: Sharp Spike in Cases Reported in Hong Kong and Singapore
New Delhi, 16th May 2025: After a period of relative calm, Covid-19 cases are rising again in parts of Asia, with Hong Kong and Singapore reporting a significant surge in infections. Health authorities in both densely populated cities have sounded the alarm over the re-emergence of the virus, prompting renewed public health vigilance.
Hong Kong Sees Year-High Infection Rate
According to Albert Au, head of the Communicable Disease Branch of Hong Kong’s Center for Health Protection, the positivity rate for Covid-19 has reached its highest level in the past year. In the week ending May 3, Hong Kong recorded 31 serious cases, marking a sharp increase in hospitalizations and deaths.
“This is the most serious spike we’ve seen in the last 12 months,” Au told local media. He confirmed that although the infection rate is still lower than the peaks recorded during previous waves, the trend is concerning and suggests the virus is spreading rapidly again.
Hospital Admissions on the Rise
Health officials have also indicated that more than 7 million people have been admitted to hospitals globally for Covid-19-related illness in the post-pandemic period, reinforcing the need for continued vigilance, testing, and vaccination awareness.
Singapore on High Alert
In Singapore, the Ministry of Health has issued its first public update on Covid-19 infections in nearly a year. Data shows that for the week ending May 3, an estimated 14,200 new cases were recorded—a 28% increase compared to the previous week.
Officials in Singapore have raised the alert level and are closely monitoring the situation. The government is expected to issue additional advisories in the coming days.
Regional Concerns Grow
The resurgence of Covid-19 in these key Asian cities has raised concerns over the possibility of a new regional wave, although experts note that current infection levels remain below those observed during the height of the global pandemic.
Authorities are urging residents to follow basic precautions, including masking in crowded spaces, regular hand hygiene, and seeking medical advice in case of flu-like symptoms.
