The Singapore Health Ministry has issued a fresh advisory to both its citizens and travellers amid a surge in coronavirus cases, particularly due to the BA.2.86 – JN.1 sub-lineage. This advisory also extends to Indian travellers.
In the week of December 3-9, 2023, Singapore witnessed an estimated 56,043 COVID-19 cases, a stark rise from the previous 32,035 cases. While the government is cautious about attributing the surge to the JN.1 variant, clarity on its increased transmissibility or severity remains uncertain.
The health ministry reported a notable spike in average daily coronavirus hospitalisations, climbing from 225 to 350 within a week. To combat this, contingency plans are in motion, including collaborations with public hospitals to boost manpower and defer non-urgent elective procedures.
Efforts are underway to provide urgent medical attention by reallocating beds and utilizing alternative care models like Mobile Inpatient Care and Transitional Care Facilities. Singapore plans to inaugurate a new COVID-19 Treatment Facility at Singapore EXPO Hall 10, which is set to care for over 80 stable COVID-19 patients who do not need intensive hospital care.
The advisory urges travellers and citizens experiencing acute respiratory infection symptoms to remain home until recovery and avoid contact with others. In unavoidable situations, mask-wearing and limiting social interactions are strongly advised, especially in crowded places and at airports.
Amidst this, a JN.1 case was identified in Kerala's Karakulam on December 8, with the patient having recovered from mild symptoms after testing positive on November 18, 2023. Kerala's health minister, Veena George, reassured citizens, citing vigilance in the health system's genomic sequencing capabilities and emphasizing alertness while caring for those with comorbidities.
Karnataka's Health Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, stressed the state's readiness, dismissing the need for border restrictions, as the state reports 58 active cases, with specific measures in place for those hospitalized or with comorbidities.
As Singapore and Indian health authorities grapple with rising cases and variants, caution remains paramount for travellers, emphasising mask-wearing, travel insurance, and avoidance of poorly ventilated crowded spaces to curb potential exposure.