Is COVID-19 making a comeback? This concern is currently gripping several Asian countries, including India. Recently, there have been reports of an increase in COVID-19 cases in India, Hong Kong, and Singapore. However, the Indian government believes the number of cases in India is minimal and the situation is completely under control.

COVID-19 Infection Rate in India

According to central government data, 164 new COVID-19 cases have been reported nationwide since May 12. Currently, there are a total of 257 active COVID-19 patients across the country. Of these, 69 are in Kerala, 44 in Mumbai, and 34 in Tamil Nadu. This number is very low compared to the country’s vast population, leading the government to state that the situation is fully under control.

COVID-19 Situation in Singapore

While India’s COVID-19 situation remains under control, reports indicate a rise in cases in Hong Kong and Singapore. Singapore currently has 14,200 active COVID-19 cases. This number increased rapidly from April 27 to May 3, with 11,000 new infections reported during that period, significantly boosting the infection rate.

Hong Kong’s Situation

Over the past 6 to 9 months, Hong Kong has seen a sudden increase in COVID-19 cases. The exact number of current active cases in Hong Kong is not yet available.

South Korea’s Situation

Efforts are underway in South Korea to prevent a new wave of COVID-19. The South Korean government is repeatedly urging citizens aged 65 and above to get vaccinated preemptively.

Experts suggest that the decrease in population immunity and the spread of new variants could be responsible for this increase in COVID-19 across various Asian countries. Singapore’s Ministry of Health has stated that LF.7 and NB.1.8—two sub-lineages of the JN.1 variant—are currently the primary circulating variants there. Although there is no official confirmation of the JN.1 variant’s spread in India, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation.