Singapore’s COVID-19 Cases Surge: What You Need to Know About The JN.1 Variant And Rising Cases

Singapore is currently witnessing a notable uptick in COVID-19 cases, primarily driven by the JN.1 variant, a sublineage of the Omicron BA.2.86 strain. While the majority of cases remain mild, health authorities are emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance and adherence to preventive measures.

Key Highlights

• Significant Increase in Cases: Singapore reported 14,200 COVID-19 cases between April 27 and May 3, 2025, up from 11,100 the previous week.

• Dominant Variants: New Omicron subvariants, LF.7 and NB.1.8—descendants of the JN.1 lineage—account for over two-thirds of sequenced cases.

• Mild Symptoms Predominate: Most infections are mild, presenting symptoms such as cough, sore throat, nausea, conjunctivitis, and brain fog.

• Vaccination Remains Crucial: Current vaccines continue to protect against severe illness; booster doses are recommended, especially for high-risk groups.

• Regional Impact: Similar surges observed in Hong Kong and Thailand, indicating a broader Southeast Asian trend.

Current Situation

• Case Numbers:  The estimated number of COVID-19 cases in the week of April 27 to May 3, 2025 rose to 14,200 cases, compared to 11,100 cases in the previous week. Over the same period, the average daily COVID-19 hospitalisations rose from 102 to 133, but the average daily Intensive Care Unit cases decreased from three to two cases. The hospitals are currently able to manage the increase in cases.

• Dominant Variant: At present, LF.7 and NB.1.8 (both descendants of the JN.1 variant) are the main COVID-19 variants circulating in Singapore, together accounting for more than two-thirds of locally sequenced cases. JN.1 is also the variant used in the formulation of the current COVID-19 vaccine.

Understanding the JN.1 Variant

The JN.1 variant, a descendant of the Omicron BA.2.86 lineage identified in August 2023, has evolved with approximately 30 mutations aimed at evading immunity. While BA.2.86 did not become dominant, JN.1 has shown increased transmissibility. Symptoms associated with JN.1 are similar to previous strains, including sore throat, fever, runny nose, dry cough, fatigue, headache, and loss of taste or smell. In some cases, it may lead to more severe fatigue.

Symptoms of JN.1 Variant

Individuals infected with the JN.1 variant have reported symptoms similar to previous COVID-19 strains, including:

• Persistent cough

• Sore throat

• Nausea and vomiting

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

• Brain fog or confusion

• Fatigue

• Most cases are mild and manageable at home; however, individuals experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.

Preventive Measures

To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the Ministry of Health (MOH) recommends the following:

• Mask-Wearing: Strongly encouraged in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, regardless of symptoms

• Vaccinations: Eligible individuals, especially those aged 60 and above or with chronic health conditions, should receive booster doses approximately a year after their last shot.

• Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals exhibiting respiratory symptoms.

• Stay Home if Unwell: Individuals experiencing symptoms of acute respiratory infection should remain at home until recovery.

Vaccination Updates

Current vaccines continue to offer protection against severe illness caused by the JN.1 variant. The MOH advises the following:

• Individuals aged 5 and above should have at least three doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna-Spikevax, or Novavax vaccines, or four doses of Sinovac.

• An additional booster dose is recommended for:

  • Persons aged 60 and above

  • Individuals with chronic medical conditions

  • Residents of aged care facilities

  • Healthcare and frontline workers

Regional Context

The rise in cases is not isolated to Singapore. Other Southeast Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Thailand, and parts of India, are also experiencing increases in COVID-19 infections, primarily attributed to the JN.1 variant and its sublineages. Experts suggest that factors such as waning immunity and increased travel contribute to this trend.

Get the latest updates from MOH on the COVID-19 situation here!