Singapore has experienced a notable rise in COVID-19 infections, with the Ministry of Health (MOH) reporting a doubling of cases in one week. From November 19 to 25, the estimated number of COVID-19 infections increased to 22,094, up from 10,726 the previous week. Despite this increase, the average daily hospitalizations and intensive care unit (ICU) cases related to COVID-19 have remained stable.
Factors Contributing to the Rise in Cases
MOH attributes the surge in infections to factors like the year-end travel season and declining population immunity. The subvariants EG.5 and HK.3 are currently the most prevalent in Singapore, accounting for over 70% of sequenced cases. However, there is no indication that these subvariants are more transmissible or cause more severe disease compared to other variants.
Health Advisory and Vaccination Recommendations
In response to the rise in cases, MOH has advised people to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations. They recommend an additional dose around one year after the last vaccine dose for individuals aged 60 and above, medically vulnerable people, and residents of aged care facilities. Additionally, all individuals aged six months and above are encouraged to receive the additional dose, especially healthcare workers and caregivers of medically vulnerable individuals. MOH continues to monitor the situation closely and reminds travelers to be vigilant and adopt relevant travel precautions.
Also learn about Novavax Vaccine Phased Out in 2024.
