COVID-19 Cases Rise in India Amid Southeast Asia Surge

Singapore and Hong Kong are experiencing a surge in COVID-19 infections, and this trend is also being observed in India. Authorities in Hong Kong have raised concerns amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

In response to the alarming increase in COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asian nations like Singapore and Hong Kong, Indian health officials declared the situation was "under control" following a review meeting. The meeting was presided over by the Director General of Health Services and attended by experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Emergency Medical Relief (EMR) division, Disaster Management Cell, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and central government hospitals.

Government of Singapore Statement

As per a press release issued by Singapore's Ministry of Health on May 13, the estimated number of COVID-19 cases increased to 14,200 during the week of April 27–May 3, 2025, from 11,100 the week prior.

The average number of COVID-19 hospitalisations per day increased from 102 to 133 during that time. According to the Singaporean government, hospitals can currently handle the rise in cases.

COVID-19 Cases in India

India currently has 257 active COVID-19 cases as of May 19, 2025, which is a very low number given the size of the nation. The majority of these cases are minor and do not require hospitalisation.

The Union Health Ministry continues to be proactive and vigilant, keeping a close eye on the situation and ensuring that the right policies are in place to protect public health.

COVID-19 Cases in Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, the proportion of respiratory samples that tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus progressively rose from 6.21 percent four weeks prior (the week of April 6–12) to 13.66 percent, which is a record high over the previous 12 months.

In a press briefing held last week, Dr. Edwin Tsui, Controller of the Centre for Health Protection (CHP), stated, “We expect the activity level of COVID-19 to remain at a higher level for at least the next few weeks.”

Health officials in Singapore attribute the rise in cases to waning immunity, while in Hong Kong, experts believe shifts in circulating strains and declining herd immunity are key contributing factors.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Rakshit Chauhan/MSM)