New COVID-19 Wave Hits Chinese Hong Kong, Singapore, China Mainland, and Thailand
A new wave of COVID-19 infections is sweeping across parts of Asia, driven by Omicron subvariants like JN.1, LF.7, and NB.1.8.
Cases are rising sharply in Chinese Hong Kong, Singapore, China Mainland, and Thailand, prompting health authorities to reintroduce precautions.
Chinese Hong Kong has seen a surge to over 1,000 weekly cases, with the highest positivity rate in a year and a spike in severe cases.
Singapore reported over 14,000 new cases in a week, with hospitalizations up 30%.
China Mainland has more than doubled its test positivity rates in hospitals.
Thailand reported over 71,000 cases in 2025, mainly after the Songkran festival.
Governments are shifting to symptom-based isolation and urging booster vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups.
Travel guidelines are being updated, and the public is advised to stay vigilant.
Despite the surge, most cases remain mild, thanks to existing immunity and vaccines. Health experts emphasise continued caution without panic.
Source: 杭州日报
Dealing with COVID-19 effectively depends on your current health, exposure risk, and whether you're infected. Here's a concise guide based on current global health recommendations as of 2025:
If You're Not Infected (Prevention)
Stay Up to Date on Vaccines
Get booster shots if you're eligible (especially if you're over 60 or have health conditions).
Some regions recommend an annual COVID-19 booster, like the flu shot.
Practice Good Hygiene
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Use alcohol-based hand sanitisers when soap isn't available.
Wear Masks in Crowded or Poorly Ventilated Places
Especially important during surges or if you're in contact with vulnerable individuals.
Improve Indoor Ventilation
Open windows or use air purifiers when indoors with others.
Avoid Close Contact with Sick People
Be cautious around anyone showing respiratory symptoms.
If You're Exposed or Showing Symptoms
Isolate Promptly
Stay home if you feel sick, even with mild symptoms.
Isolate until you've been fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms improve.
Wear a mask for 5 days after isolation when around others.
Test for COVID-19
Use antigen or PCR tests to confirm infection.
If negative but symptoms persist, retest in 24–48 hours.
Monitor Symptoms
Mild: Rest, fluids, fever reducers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen).
Severe: Seek medical care if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion.
Notify Close Contacts
Let people you've been in contact with know, so they can monitor or test.
If You Test Positive
Follow Symptom-Based Isolation
Isolate until at least 24 hours after fever subsides (without medication) and other symptoms improve.
After that, wear a mask in public for 5 more days.
Use Treatments if High-Risk
High-risk individuals (elderly, immunocompromised) may qualify for antiviral medications like Paxlovid. Contact a doctor early.
Stay Hydrated and Rest
Most people recover at home with supportive care.
Protecting Vulnerable People
Ensure elderly or chronically ill family members are vaccinated and avoid exposure during surges.
Use masks and testing before visits.
Clean shared surfaces often.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Call emergency services or go to a hospital if you experience:
Trouble breathing
Persistent chest pain
Confusion or inability to wake up
Bluish lips or face
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