Health officials warn of community spread as test positivity rates and sewage samples indicate rising Covid-19 infections across key Asian cities
Hong Kong: A fresh wave of Covid-19 infections is sweeping across parts of Asia, raising alarms among health authorities and the public. Financial hubs like Hong Kong and Singapore are witnessing a sharp increase in cases, while China and Thailand are also battling new outbreaks — signaling an unexpected seasonal resurgence of the virus that first emerged over five years ago.
Hong Kong on High Alert
In Hong Kong, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) has issued a public health alert after detecting a marked rise in Covid-19 cases. Albert Au, head of the CHP's Communicable Disease Branch, confirmed that respiratory samples testing positive for Covid-19 have hit their highest level since last year.
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In the week ending May 3, Hong Kong recorded 31 severe cases, the highest weekly total in over a year.
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Sewage surveillance has also revealed a rise in viral concentrations, indicating wider community transmission.
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Hospitals and clinics are seeing a growing number of patients with Covid-related symptoms.
Entertainment Sector Also Affected
The city's entertainment industry has not been spared. Popular Hong Kong singer Eason Chan has tested positive for Covid-19, prompting the cancellation of his scheduled concerts in Taiwan. His diagnosis has drawn significant public attention, underscoring the seriousness of the ongoing surge.
“The rising number of severe cases, along with the viral load in sewage samples, clearly indicates a wider community spread. We urge the public to remain vigilant,” said Albert Au, CHP.
A Broader Regional Concern
The resurgence comes at a time when respiratory infections typically subside, suggesting this wave may defy typical seasonal trends. While the WHO has not yet issued a new global advisory, local authorities across China, Singapore, and Thailand have stepped up testing, hospital preparedness, and public advisories.
Experts emphasise that pandemic fatigue and waning immunity, particularly among vulnerable groups, could be contributing to this latest outbreak.
Key Takeaways:
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Covid-19 cases rising sharply in Asia, especially in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand.
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Hong Kong records highest weekly severe case count in over a year.
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Entertainment icon Eason Chan tests positive, leading to canceled concerts.
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Authorities urge renewed public vigilance despite pandemic fatigue.
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