Singapore Monitors COVID-19 Spike Amid New Variant Spread

Health authorities in Singapore are closely monitoring a recent rise in COVID-19 infections, confirming that the current variants pose no greater threat than their predecessors. The Ministry of Health and the Communicable Diseases Agency reported an increase in cases from 11,100 to 14,200 within a week.

Despite the rise in cases, average daily hospitalisations climbed only slightly, and the numbers in intensive care dropped marginally. Officials speculate the increase in COVID-19 infections might be due to waning immunity among the population, anticipating periodic waves of infection akin to other endemic diseases.

Amidst the prevalence of 'LF.7' and 'NB.1.8' variants, both derived from the 'JN.1' strain, Singaporeans are urged to maintain updated vaccinations. The public is also advised to follow health guidelines, including routine hand washing, wearing masks in crowded places, and avoiding travel when unwell, to curb the virus's spread.

(With inputs from agencies.)