Covid-19 is once again making headlines across Asia, with several countries reporting a noticeable uptick in infections. Regions that had previously enjoyed months of relative calm are now seeing cases rise — and unusually, this resurgence is occurring during the warmer season, when respiratory illnesses typically decline.
In Hong Kong, health authorities have issued alerts following a significant rise in Covid-related hospital visits. The city recorded 31 severe cases in the week ending May 3 — the highest in a year. Officials also noted increased viral concentrations in sewage samples, indicating broader community transmission. Popular singer Eason Chan’s positive test result and concert cancellations have further drawn public attention to the outbreak.
Singapore is also witnessing a surge. The Ministry of Health reported a 28% increase in cases, reaching around 14,200 infections in a single week. Hospitalizations have gone up by nearly 30%. Authorities believe the spike is due to waning immunity rather than the emergence of a new variant. Older adults and vulnerable individuals are being urged to get booster doses.
Elsewhere in the region, Covid positivity rates in Chinese hospitals have more than doubled over the past month, raising fears of a wave similar to last summer. In Thailand, two significant outbreaks have been reported this year, particularly following the Songkran festival in April, a time of major public gatherings.
While India currently reports just 93 active cases and no sign of a new wave, health experts caution that the situation could change quickly, given regional trends.
The resurgence serves as a clear reminder: the pandemic may not dominate headlines anymore, but Covid-19 hasn’t gone away. Continued vigilance, especially through vaccinations and boosters, remains crucial.
