A significant surge in Covid-19 cases in Singapore over the past two weeks, driven by the new KP.1 and KP.2 variants, has led to a total of 25,900 cases. This sudden increase is causing alarm and raising questions: could these variants spread to neighboring Indonesia?
Currently, these new variants represent more than two-thirds of the Covid-19 cases in Singapore. This situation is particularly concerning for Indonesians due to the close geographical proximity.
Dr. Ngabila Salama, a Public Health Practitioner, emphasized that Covid-19 is here to stay, with fluctuating case numbers. However, she assured that there are several preventive measures people can take to protect themselves.
“Covid-19 will never completely disappear and will continue to exist, whether the case numbers are very low or high. Clearly, there will be spikes in cases every six months due to declining immunity, especially among vulnerable groups such as toddlers, pre-elderly over 50, those with low immunity, people with comorbidities, and healthcare workers,” Dr. Ngabila Salama stated on Tuesday (May 21, 2024).
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To guard against the new Covid-19 variants, she recommended practicing the 3Ms: wearing medical masks in crowded places, frequently using hand sanitizer or washing hands, and maintaining a distance of at least one meter in crowded areas.
She also highlighted the importance of staying up-to-date with vaccinations and conducting early detection through at-home antigen self-tests or PCR tests if symptoms like cough, runny nose, or sore throat appear.
Recently, according to detikhealth, Singapore has encountered a new wave of Covid-19. Authorities in Singapore predict that this wave will peak by the end of June 2024.
Singapore’s Health Minister Ong Ye Kung reported that during the week of May 5-11, 2024, there were 25,900 Covid-19 cases in Singapore. This represents a 90% increase compared to the 13,700 cases recorded the previous week.
“We are at the early stages of an escalating wave,” said Ong. “So, I think this wave will peak within the next two to four weeks, meaning between mid and late June,” he added, as reported by Livermint.
Additionally, the Singapore Ministry of Health noted that the average daily hospital admissions due to Covid-19 rose to approximately 250 from 181 in mid-May 2024. Despite the increase in cases, the number of patients requiring hospital care remains low, at about three cases per day.
In light of this surge, Ong Ye Kung called for Singapore’s healthcare system to prepare. Despite the potential escalation until the end of June, Ong mentioned that there are no plans to tighten health protocols, as Covid-19 has become globally endemic.
The potential impact of these developments on Indonesia is a cause for concern. The Indonesian government and health authorities will need to remain vigilant and prepared to address any possible spread of the new variants. By following recommended health measures and staying informed, both countries can work towards mitigating the impact of Covid-19.
