S'pore monitoring rise in COVID-19 infections, 'periodic' waves to be expected

Singapore has experienced a recent increase in Covid-19 infections, with an estimated 14,200 cases in the week of Apr. 27 to May 3.

There were 11,100 cases the week prior.

Daily Covid-19 hospitalisations also rose from 102 to 133 over the same period, though the average daily Intensive Care Unit cases decreased from three to two cases.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) said they are monitoring the recent increase, and there is no indication that the variants circulating locally are more transmissible or cause more severe disease compared to previously circulating variants.

"As with other endemic respiratory diseases, periodic COVID-19 waves are expected throughout the year," said MOH in a press release on May 13.

However, more vulnerable individuals, such as those aged 60 years and above, medically vulnerable individuals, or residents of aged care facilities, are recommended to keep updated with vaccinations.

This includes receiving an additional dose around a year after their last dose.

Healthcare workers, people living or working with medically vulnerable individuals, are also encouraged to receive the vaccine.

Other individuals aged six months and above who wish to receive the COVID-19 vaccine can continue to do so, said MOH.

The ministry noted that the increase in cases could be due to several factors, including waning population immunity.

MOH said the hospitals are currently able to manage the increase in cases and that vaccination remains effective in protecting against severe illness.

Covid-19 vaccination availability

For those wishing to get a new dose of the Covid-19 vaccination, it is available at Healthier SG General Practitioner clinics and polyclinics.

More information can be found here.

The public is also advised to take precautionary measures against the disease, including managing good personal hygiene, minimising social interactions and unnecessary travel when unwell, as well as wearing a mask in crowded areas or when displaying symptoms such as having a runny nose, sore throat, headache, or fever.

Top image via Canva.