MAY 21, 2024: Health officials predicting the peak of the wave between mid and late June. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung highlighted the escalating situation, indicating that the nation is at the beginning of a steadily rising wave.

The recent surge in cases is primarily attributed to a new set of COVID-19 variants collectively referred to as FLiRT. Among these, KP.1 and KP.2 are the predominant strains, accounting for over two-thirds of the new infections in the country. As of May 3, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified KP.2 as a variant under monitoring. However, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has noted that there is currently no evidence to suggest that KP.1 and KP.2 are more transmissible or cause more severe disease than other circulating variants.

According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health Singapore, the number of COVID-19 cases reported between May 5 and 11 surged to 25,900, nearly doubling the previous week’s count of 13,700. Concurrently, the average daily COVID-19 hospitalisations increased to about 250, up from 181 the week before. Despite the rise in overall cases and hospitalisations, the average number of daily intensive care unit (ICU) cases remains relatively low, with three cases compared to two in the previous week. Minister Ong emphasized the importance of monitoring the situation closely and assured the public that the government is prepared to manage the surge. The current data and trends suggest that while the wave is growing, the healthcare system is not yet under significant strain from severe cases.

Residents are urged to stay vigilant and continue adhering to public health guidelines, including wearing masks in crowded places, maintaining good hand hygiene, and getting vaccinated or receiving booster shots if eligible. The government is also ramping up efforts to ensure that medical facilities are adequately prepared to handle any potential increase in severe cases requiring hospitalization.

As Singapore navigates this new wave of infections, the focus remains on minimizing the impact on public health and ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. The MOH continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available. For the latest updates and guidelines, residents are encouraged to visit the official Ministry of Health website and follow announcements from local authorities.