Singapore is experiencing a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, with the Health Ministry reporting a near doubling of weekly infections. The estimated number of cases from May 5 to 11 rose to 25,900, a 90% increase from the previous week’s 13,700 cases. Correspondingly, average daily hospitalizations have increased to about 250 from 181, although intensive care unit (ICU) cases remain low.
To manage hospital capacity, public hospitals have been instructed to reduce non-urgent elective surgeries and transfer suitable patients to care facilities or home care. The Ministry of Health (MOH) is monitoring this wave closely and advises people with mild symptoms to avoid emergency departments.
In response to the surge, the MOH is encouraging people to stay current with their COVID-19 vaccinations. SMS reminders will be sent to those who haven’t received a jab in the past year. Currently, 80% of the local population have completed their initial or additional doses but not received a recent shot, indicating waning immunity.
The surge is primarily driven by the KP.1 and KP.2 strains of the virus, which account for over two-thirds of current cases in Singapore. These strains are part of the “FLiRT” group of variants, descended from the JN.1 variant. The World Health Organization recently classified KP.2 as a Variant Under Monitoring. This strain is also prevalent in the United States and detected in countries like China, Thailand, India, Australia, and the UK. MOH has stated that there is no evidence that KP.1 and KP.2 are more transmissible or cause more severe illness than other variants.
Vaccinations are free for all eligible residents. From May 21 to June 29, Joint Testing and Vaccination Centres will extend their Saturday and public holiday eve hours. Participants in the Healthier SG initiative can get vaccinated at about 250 clinics, with more being added. Mobile vaccination teams will also be deployed to selected locations to reach out to seniors.
The MOH emphasized the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, noting that during the JN.1 wave in December 2023, seniors aged 60 and above who were not up-to-date with their vaccinations had a 25% higher rate of hospitalizations and ICU admissions compared to those who were.
Residents can book their COVID-19 vaccination appointments via the Health Appointment System.
The CDC’s Respiratory Virus Guidance outlines strategies to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission and severe illness:
Core Prevention Strategies:
- Stay Up to Date with Vaccines:
- Vaccination lowers the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19.
- Practice Good Hygiene:
- Engage in practices that improve cleanliness.
- Ensure Clean Air:
- Take steps to improve air quality around you.
- When Sick:
- Stay home and avoid contact with others if you have respiratory symptoms.
- Seek prompt healthcare for testing and treatment, especially if you have risk factors for severe illness.
Additional Prevention Strategies:
- Mask Wearing and Social Distancing
- Regular COVID-19 Testing
Key Times for Using Prevention Strategies:
- When respiratory viruses are prevalent in your community.
- If you or those around you have risk factors for severe illness.
- If you or those around you have been exposed to a respiratory virus, are currently sick, or are recovering.
WHO: World Health Organization; COVID-19: Coronavirus Disease 2019; CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;
MOH: Ministry of Health
Adapted from: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singapore-covid-19-cases-nearly-double-hospital-capacity-vaccination-4345961 ; https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
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