Overview

Health authorities across Asia report rising COVID-19 cases in some areas, linked to an Omicron-descendant variant known as JN.1. Official data show recent case increases in Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand and others, though illness generally remains mild and health systems are coping. Vaccination and hygiene remain key defenses. WHO and national agencies emphasize vigilance, updated vaccines for high-risk groups, and standard precautions.

JN.1 Variant Situation

WHO now classifies JN.1 as a Variant of Interest. As of May 2025, most circulating strains globally are derived from JN.1. WHO data (late April 2025) show JN.1 accounted for about 26% of viral sequences. Descendant lineages (such as LF.7 and NB.1.8) are prevalent in Singapore and other countries.

WHO reports that JN.1 and its sublineages can spread somewhat faster but do not appear to cause more severe disease than earlier variants. In trials and real-world data, updated vaccines targeting JN.1 and related strains boost immunity broadly. WHO's vaccine advisory group advised using monovalent JN.1- or KP.2-based vaccines; these have been approved and deployed in many countries. Current evidence suggests existing vaccines (especially with recent boosters) continue to protect against severe illness from JN.1-derived strains.

Singapore: Case Surge and Health Measures

Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) reports a recent uptick in cases but sees no increase in variant severity. In the week of 27 April–3 May 2025, about 14,200 new infections were recorded, up from 11,100 the prior week. Average daily hospital admissions rose slightly (from 102 to 133), while ICU occupancy remained low (3 to 2 cases per day). Hospitals report being able to manage the rise. MOH notes this seasonal wave is likely driven by waning immunity and normal endemic patterns.

The dominant strains in Singapore are LF.7 and NB.1.8, both descendants of JN.1. Together they account for over two-thirds of sequenced cases. Importantly, MOH states there is "no indication that the variants circulating locally are more transmissible or cause more severe disease" than before. The JN.1 lineage is even used in Singapore's current COVID-19 vaccine formulation.

Advice and precautions

MOH advises high-risk people (those 60+, medically vulnerable or in care homes) to get an additional vaccine dose about one year after their last dose. All others 6 months and older may continue to get vaccinated if desired. Vaccination remains the key protection against severe illness. The public is urged to keep up basic hygiene (handwashing, covering coughs) and to stay home when ill. Standard measures – masks in crowded places, good ventilation, and seeking early medical care for symptoms – are recommended to curb spread.

Hong Kong: Rising Indicators and Response

Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP) reports multiple surveillance indicators at their highest in a year, signaling a growing wave. Weekly reported cases climbed (1,042 in the week ending May 10, vs 972 the week before). Test positivity has nearly doubled (from 6.21% four weeks earlier to 13.66% by May 10). Sewage surveillance also shows sharply rising virus levels (about 710,000 copies/liter, up from ~390,000 four weeks prior).

The current dominant strain in Hong Kong is XDV, a JN.1-related lineage. Officials emphasize that "the latest information does not suggest that XDV will cause a more severe disease than JN.1, XBB, and their descendant lineages". Similarly, Hong Kong's Director of Health notes "no evidence" that XDV causes more severe illness. So far in this wave (four weeks), the CHP has logged 81 adult severe cases and 30 fatalities.

Public health actions

Hong Kong authorities urge strict personal and environmental hygiene (handwashing, mask use in crowded/poorly ventilated spaces, etc.) to protect against infection. High-risk groups (elderly, immunocompromised) are advised to get an additional vaccine dose if ≥6 months have passed since their last dose or infection. Parents are advised to complete their children's primary vaccination series as soon as possible.

India: Controlled Situation

In India, health officials say the COVID-19 situation remains under control despite regional surges. A Ministry of Health and Family Welfare review (19 May 2025) reported only 257 active cases nationwide, almost all mild and not requiring hospitalization. Indian authorities are closely monitoring the situation and continuing high levels of testing and genome surveillance (via INSACOG labs).

Other Asian Regions

Thailand

After the Songkran holiday, Thailand has seen clusters of outbreaks. From Jan–14 May 2025, about 71,067 cases and 19 deaths were reported nationwide. The Thai Department of Medical Sciences notes a growing presence of the XEC variant (a recombinant Omicron) in Jan–Feb, which has contributed to faster spread.

China

Official Chinese data indicate rising severe cases in recent months. The WHO's Western Pacific report (May 2025) shows that in March 2025 China recorded 131 new severe COVID-19 cases and 7 deaths (up from 92 cases and 1 death in Feb). As of late March, the predominant strain in China was XDV, accounting for ~87% of sequenced samples.

Malaysia

Despite regional increases, Malaysia's cases remain low. The Health Ministry reports 11,727 cases for epidemiological weeks 1–19 (2025), with a continuous decline since early January. Current levels are well below alert thresholds.

Philippines

COVID activity remains low. The Department of Health states there is "no cause for alarm" as cases have fallen sharply (an 87% drop vs. 2024). Only 1,774 cases have been recorded so far in 2025 (vs. 14,074 in 2024).

Symptoms, Severity and Public Health Advice

Across Asia, the symptom profile of current infections remains similar to prior Omicron waves: primarily respiratory symptoms like cough, sore throat, runny nose, with fatigue and headaches. WHO and local experts stress that vaccination is effective at preventing severe outcomes for all variants, including JN.1-related strains.

In summary, Asia is experiencing a regional rise in COVID-19 cases, largely linked to Omicron-derived variants (notably JN.1 and its offshoots). Official data indicate infections are increasing in Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand and parts of China, but largely mild with low hospitalization rates. National health agencies and WHO are urging vigilance: maintain vaccinations (including boosters), practice good hygiene, and protect vulnerable groups.