
Wed May 21 09:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Several Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand, are experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases. While these nations urge caution and anticipate further waves, India reports a relatively low number of active cases, which are mostly mild, and the government claims the situation is under control. A review meeting in India concluded the same. Mumbai reported two deaths of COVID-19 positive patients, but sources attribute these to pre-existing health conditions. South Korea has extended its seasonal COVID vaccination period, encouraging elderly citizens to get inoculated.
**News Article:**
**COVID-19 Cases Surge in Parts of Asia, India Remains Relatively Calm**
**New Delhi/Singapore –** Several Asian countries are grappling with a resurgence of COVID-19, raising concerns about potential new waves of the virus. Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand are experiencing notable increases in cases, prompting authorities to issue warnings and monitor the situation closely.
In Singapore, the Ministry of Health reported an estimated 14,200 cases for the week of April 27 to May 3, up from 11,100 the previous week. Hong Kong officials are also bracing for elevated activity levels in the coming weeks, citing expected cycles of infection.
Despite the regional uptick, India appears to be holding steady. As of May 19, 2025, the country reported only 257 active cases, a figure considered low given its vast population. The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has stated that the situation is under control, with most cases being mild and not requiring hospitalization. A recent review meeting of health experts echoed this sentiment.
“The current COVID-19 situation in India remains under control,” a statement from the meeting concluded.
However, Mumbai’s KEM Hospital reported two deaths of patients who tested positive for COVID-19. Sources suggest that underlying health conditions, including oral cancer and nephrotic syndrome, were the primary causes of death.
Elsewhere in Asia, South Korea has extended its seasonal COVID vaccination campaign until the end of June, urging individuals aged 65 and older to receive the JN.1 shot from Pfizer and BioNTech.
While the situation in some parts of Asia is cause for vigilance, India’s current experience offers a contrasting picture of relative calm, at least for now. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely both locally and in other parts of the world.