Surge in Flu Cases Hits Singapore Clinics Amid Weather Changes

Healthcare professionals in Singapore have reported a significant increase in flu cases, with some clinics experiencing up to a tenfold rise over the past two weeks. The surge has raised alarms about the potential impact on public health, particularly as the region grapples with changing weather patterns and a decline in preventive health measures.

Flu Cases Spike Across Clinics

At Kingsway Medical Clinic, doctors typically handle around five to ten flu patients weekly. Recently, that number surged to more than 50 cases per week. Dr. Zhang Qi, a general practitioner at the clinic, described the situation as a “sustained and clear surge.” He emphasized that while occasional fluctuations are common, the scale and speed of the current increase were unexpected.

This clinic, which has branches in Beauty World, Sengkang, and Braddell, has noted that many people are neglecting flu vaccinations and traditional precautions. “As COVID-19 restrictions have eased, the public is becoming more careless about wearing masks and hand hygiene,” Dr. Zhang stated. “This oversight allows the virus to spread more easily.”

Similarly, DoctorAnywhere has reported a spike of up to 40 percent in flu cases within the past week, affecting both its physical clinics and teleconsultation services. Most patients presenting with flu symptoms are young children experiencing high fevers. Dr. Ko Reyor, the lead hybrid care doctor at the clinic, pointed to the recent wet weather as a contributing factor. “Crowding indoors during the rainy season increases contact rates, making it easier for influenza viruses to spread,” he explained.

Seasonal Vulnerabilities and Recommendations

Chua Medical Clinic and Surgery in Bukit Batok has also noted a 20 percent increase in flu patients over the same period. Dr. Chua Guan Kiat, the clinic’s director, suggested that this surge is likely tied to seasonal variations. He highlighted Singapore’s dense population and high volume of travel as factors that heighten vulnerability to flu outbreaks.

The Communicable Diseases Agency has tracked rising influenza infections since mid-August. Typically, flu activity peaks between December and March, as well as from May to August. Although the agency has not indicated that the current infections are more severe than usual, healthcare professionals anticipate that cases will continue to rise as flu season approaches.

Dr. Precelia Lam, a general practitioner at Raffles Medical, emphasized Singapore’s role as a major global travel hub, exposing the population to various flu strains. She urged the public to maintain proper hand hygiene and wear masks in crowded settings. Vaccination at least once a year is especially critical for high-risk groups, including children and the elderly. “These basic precautions have proven effective in preventing many airborne and respiratory illnesses,” Dr. Lam noted.

As Singapore faces this flu surge, public health officials are urging individuals to adopt preventive measures to mitigate the spread of the virus. The combination of weather changes and lowered vigilance in health practices poses a challenge that requires immediate attention from both healthcare providers and the public. By prioritizing vaccinations and hygiene, the community can better protect itself against further outbreaks.