In Thailand:
From January 1 to May 10, 2025, Thailand recorded 53,676 COVID-19 cases and 16 deaths. Bangkok reported the highest number of infections, with 16,723 cases, peaking during the week of April 27 to May 3, 2025, with 14,349 cases, including 2 deaths. Other provinces with significant case numbers include Chon Buri (1,177 cases), Nonthaburi (866 cases), and Rayong (553 cases). The rise in COVID-19 cases in Thailand is linked to the increase of the XBB.1.16 subvariant. According to Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health, despite the recent surge, the public is advised not to worry excessively, as COVID-19 has become endemic in Thailand, with most cases presenting only mild symptoms.
In China:
Data from China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during surveillance from March 31 to May 4, 2025, showed that the COVID-19 positivity rate among patients with flu-like symptoms visiting outpatient and emergency departments rose from 7.5% to 16.2%. Chinese health experts reassured the public that COVID-19 remains under control despite this slight increase in positive cases among flu-symptomatic patients in outpatient clinics.
In Singapore:
According to Singapore’s Ministry of Health official website, COVID-19 cases increased from 11,100 to 14,200 during the week of April 27 to May 3, 2025. Hospital admissions rose to 133, while severe cases decreased to 2. The Ministry noted this as a cyclical trend similar to other respiratory illnesses. The two main variants circulating are LF.7 and NB.1.8, descendants of JN.1, for which vaccines are available. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung emphasized that Singapore’s healthcare system remains capable of managing the situation. The government encourages booster vaccinations for people aged 60 and above, high-risk groups, and healthcare workers after one year, while vaccination remains available for anyone aged six months and older. Singapore continues to advise maintaining hygiene, wearing masks when symptomatic, and limiting contact when unwell.
World Health Organization (WHO) Recommendations:
WHO continues to recommend that people maintain preventive measures such as wearing masks, frequent handwashing, and full vaccination. High-risk individuals, including the elderly and those with underlying conditions, are urged to receive booster doses to enhance immunity. The rise in COVID-19 cases in Asia reminds us that the pandemic can still resurge. Maintaining prevention measures and increasing vaccination coverage are essential to protect public health and prevent new infection waves.
Compiled by: Le Minh Dat (email: lmd@vpha.org.vn)
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References:
1. Báo Sức khoẻ & Đời sống. COVID-19 tăng tại Thái Lan, tình hình dịch bệnh này tại Việt Nam thế nào? Accessed May14, 2025. https://suckhoedoisong.vn/covid-19-tang-tai-thai-lan-tinh-hinh-dich-benh-nay-tai-viet-nam-the-nao-169250514100048422.htm
2. Đài truyền hình Việt Nam (VTV). Dịch COVID-19 có dấu hiệu bùng phát trở lại tại châu Á? Accessed May14, 2025. https://vtv.vn/the-gioi/dich-covid-19-co-dau-hieu-bung-phat-tro-lai-tai-chau-a-20250514113940808.htm