Asia is seeing a new surge in Covid-19 cases, mainly driven by the JN.1 Omicron subvariant. Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand have reported sharp increases, with hospitalisations up 30% in Singapore and fatalities in Hong Kong at a one-year high.
Thailand has recorded over 71,000 cases in 2025, Singapore about 14,200, and Hong Kong 1,042 cases with 31 deaths, reports the Gulf News.
The rise in cases has also boosted demand for Covid-19 test kits across Asia. Despite the surge, most infections remain mild with no unusual severity or mortality. Data from China’s CDC suggests this wave may rival last summer’s peak.
India is seeing a mild rise, but officials say the situation remains under control. The JN.1 variant, along with LF.7 and NB.1.8, drives most infections. Vaccines continue to protect against severe illness, though protection against mild cases may be limited. Authorities urge mask use, hand hygiene, and vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups.
India convenes review, situation under control
Following media reports of rising cases in Asia, India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare held a high-level review meeting with experts from ICMR, NCDC, EMR, and central hospitals. The review, chaired by the Director General of Health Services, concluded that the situation in India remains under control.
As of May 19, India had only 257 active cases, all classified as mild. No hospitalisations or deaths have been linked to the current uptick. Surveillance remains robust through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and ICMR.
