In response to a sudden surge in coronavirus cases, particularly attributed to the sub-lineage BA.2.86 – JN.1, the Singapore Health Ministry has issued a travel advisory for its citizens and travelers, including those from India, reported Economic Times.
The ministry’s advisory comes in light of an estimated 56,043 COVID-19 cases reported in the week of December 3-9, 2023, marking a significant increase from the 32,035 cases recorded in the preceding week.
Despite doubts from the Singapore government regarding the JN.1 variant as the sole cause for the surge, there remains no clear indication that either BA.2.86 or JN.1 are more transmissible. Additionally, uncertainties persist about the severity of the disease caused by JN.1 compared to other circulating variants.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George has expressed vigilance regarding the COVID-19 sub-strain JN.1, emphasizing the need to monitor the situation closely.
Simultaneously, Singapore’s health ministry, in its report, highlighted a rise in average daily coronavirus hospitalizations from 225 to 350 within a week. In response to the escalating situation, the ministry is implementing contingency plans, collaborating with public hospitals to ensure an adequate workforce and postponing non-urgent elective procedures.
To enhance capacity and address urgent cases, the health ministry is exploring options such as making additional beds available and utilizing facilities like Transitional Care Facilities. Furthermore, alternative care models like Mobile Inpatient Care are being considered as part of the strategy.
As part of its proactive measures, the health ministry announced the opening of a new COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF) at Singapore EXPO Hall 10. The facility is designed to provide care for more than 80 stable COVID-19 patients who do not require intensive hospital care, reflecting the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare resources in response to the evolving situation.
