Mon May 19 18:10:00 UTC 2025: ## COVID-19 Cases Surge in Asia, India Sees Uptick Amid Healthcare Concerns

**Mumbai, India -** A resurgence of COVID-19 is sweeping through parts of Asia, with Hong Kong and Singapore reporting significant increases in cases. The trend is also emerging in India, where 164 new cases have been reported since May 12th, bringing the current active caseload to 257.

Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu are currently leading in the number of new infections. Kerala reported 69 new cases in the past week, followed by Maharashtra with 44 and Tamil Nadu with 34.

While Maharashtra has reported two recent deaths of individuals who tested positive for COVID-19, doctors maintain that the deaths were due to underlying illnesses and not directly caused by the virus. However, questions are being raised regarding transparency in death certificates and handling of bodies. Concerns arose at Mumbai’s King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital following the deaths of a 59-year-old cancer patient and a 14-year-old girl with kidney disease, both of whom tested positive for COVID-19.

This uptick in cases is placing a spotlight on Mumbai’s healthcare infrastructure. Reports indicate that nearly 200 primary health centers (PHCs) and sub-centers are struggling due to staff shortages, lack of funding, and inadequate facilities. Community Health Volunteer Neha Kadam highlighted the issue, stating that staff members are responsible for overseeing 1,200 homes each and lack basic amenities.

Despite the rising numbers, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is urging residents to remain calm, stating that the situation is under control and hospitals are adequately prepared. The BMC maintains that the current number of cases remains “extremely limited” and that no major outbreaks or clusters have been identified.

Meanwhile, authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore are on high alert. Hong Kong’s Center for Health Protection reports a high level of virus activity, and Singapore’s Ministry of Health is monitoring a recent increase in cases, with the estimated number rising to 14,200 in the week of April 27 to May 3, compared to 11,100 the previous week. Hospitalizations in Singapore have also increased. However, Singaporean authorities emphasize that current variants are not demonstrably more transmissible or severe than previous strains.

The situation continues to be monitored closely across the region, with emphasis on preparedness and public caution.

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