Asia Faces New COVID-19 Surge in May 2025: Key Updates from China, Thailand, Hong Kong & Singapore

COVID-19 is making a comeback in Asia. Countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand are witnessing a sharp rise in infections, hospitalizations, and even deaths. Health officials are urging the public to stay alert, especially as the virus spreads during the warmer months—a time when respiratory illnesses usually decline.

Country-by-Country Breakdown

🇭🇰 Hong Kong: Highest Positivity Rate in a Year

• Positivity rate jumped from 1.7% in March to 11.4% in early May—the highest since August 2024.
• 31 severe cases and multiple deaths reported in the week ending May 3.
• Sewage surveillance indicates increased viral load, signaling widespread community transmission.
• Most severe cases involve individuals 65 years and older with underlying health conditions.

🇸🇬 Singapore: First Major Update in a Year

• 28% increase in weekly cases, totaling 14,200 in the week ending May 3.
• Hospitalizations rose by 30% during the same period.
• Health Ministry attributes the surge to waning immunity, not new variants.
• Public urged to get booster shots and wear masks in crowded places.

🇨🇳 China: Test Positivity Rates Double

• COVID-19 test positivity rates in hospitals more than doubled over five weeks ending May 4.
• The surge is approaching levels seen during last summer’s peak.
• No new variants reported, but the increase is linked to waning immunity and seasonal factors.

🇹🇭 Thailand: Over 91,000 Cases in 2025

• 91,448 infections and 24 deaths reported between January 1 and May 16.
• Two significant cluster outbreaks identified, especially after the Songkran festival in April.
• The XEC variant, a recombinant Omicron strain, is fueling the surge.
• Children aged 0–4 and adults aged 20–39 are the most affected groups.

What’s Driving the Surge?

• Waning Immunity: Many individuals are experiencing reduced protection as time passes since their last vaccination or infection.
• Seasonal Factors: Despite being summer, COVID-19 is defying expectations by spreading rapidly.
• Mass Gatherings: Events like Thailand’s Songkran festival have contributed to cluster outbreaks.
• New Variants: The emergence of the XEC variant in Thailand is a cause for concern due to its higher transmissibility.

🤔 Should You Be Worried?

While the situation is concerning, there’s no need to panic. Here’s what you can do:

• Stay Informed: Keep up with local health advisories and updates.
• Get Vaccinated: Ensure you’re up-to-date with your COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces.
• Monitor Symptoms: If you feel unwell, get tested and isolate as necessary to prevent spreading the virus.