Health Ministry Issues Urgent Advisory as BA.2.86 – JN.1 Variant Fuels, Urge to Take Immediate Precautions

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 new advisory for its citizens and travellers, including those from India.

The latest report from the ministry reveals a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, with an estimated 56,043 cases reported in the week of December 3-9, 2023, compared to 32,035 cases in the preceding week.

While the Singapore government is cautious about attributing the rise solely to the JN.1 variant, there is currently no definitive evidence suggesting that BA.2.86 or JN.1 are more transmissible. Moreover, the impact of JN.1 on causing more severe illness compared to other circulating variants remains uncertain.

The health ministry's report also highlights a notable uptick in average daily coronavirus hospitalisations, rising from 225 to 350 within a week.

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To curb the spread of the virus, the ministry urges citizens experiencing symptoms of acute respiratory infection (ARI) to stay home until symptoms resolve, avoiding contact with others. If interaction is unavoidable, individuals should wear masks, limit social interactions, and steer clear of crowded places.

The advisory emphasises the importance of wearing masks in crowded areas and encourages citizens to take precautions, such as wearing masks at airports, obtaining travel insurance, and avoiding poorly ventilated crowded spaces.

As Singapore remains vigilant in the face of rising cases, citizens and travellers are urged to stay informed, adhere to health guidelines, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from the ongoing threat of COVID-19.