Singapore is currently grappling with another surge in COVID-19 cases, with expectations of more individuals falling ill and requiring hospitalization in the weeks ahead, according to Health Minister Ong Ye Kung. Ong revealed that daily estimated cases have escalated from around 1,000 three weeks ago to 2,000 in the past two weeks. Nevertheless, the government's approach will categorize this as an "endemic disease," he stated.
The recent surge in cases is primarily driven by two variants, namely EG.5 and its sub-lineage HK.3, both of which trace their origins back to the XBB Omicron variant. Ong conveyed that these variants now account for over 75% of daily cases.
Despite the increase in cases, there are no intentions to implement social restrictions akin to those during the previous wave that occurred between March and April, which saw daily infections peak at around 4,000 cases. Singapore's strategy will continue to view this as an endemic condition, with the belief that current vaccines remain effective in safeguarding against severe illnesses caused by these new variants.
Ong emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant against COVID-19 and cautioned that more individuals could become ill in the coming weeks, potentially resulting in increased hospitalizations and extended waiting times.
The Health Minister cited a Ministry of Health (MOH) study that examined the incidence rate of severe illness during the previous infection wave in April. It revealed that among the "best protected" individuals – those who have received a minimum of three mRNA vaccine shots and had a natural infection within the last year – the incidence rate of severe illness stood at around 10 per 100,000 people.
In contrast, the "least protected" group, which lacks minimum vaccination protection and has no documented previous infection, faces a more than fivefold increase in the likelihood of severe illness when infected with COVID-19, with an incidence rate exceeding 50 per 100,000 individuals.
Ong highlighted a crucial finding from the study, indicating that protection wanes over time, typically occurring around the 12-month mark following initial vaccinations.
During an event, Ong urged senior citizens and those with underlying medical conditions to take necessary precautions, including wearing masks in crowded settings. He emphasized the importance of keeping vaccinations up to date, especially for seniors and vulnerable individuals, recommending that they receive a booster shot at least once a year.
Ong also underscored that the COVID-19 virus has not become less severe; rather, it is the populace that has grown more robust and resilient due to vaccinations and successful recovery from infections. However, he cautioned that protection diminishes over time.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) continues to provide free Covid-19 vaccinations at its various vaccination centers.
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