Introduction

SINGAPORE – The health authorities in Singapore are intensifying their surveillance on four key diseases, including Covid-19, avian influenza (H5N1), mpox, and a mysterious disease affecting children in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as part of a robust pandemic preparedness strategy.

Health Risks and Surveillance Intensification

In a recent update shared via his social media accounts, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung highlighted the escalating health risks associated with these diseases. Singapore's vigilance is particularly crucial during this year-end travel period, as the potential for outbreaks rises.

Mysterious Disease in the DRC

The DRC is currently grappling with a mysterious illness that has resulted in a staggering 6% mortality rate among infected individuals, primarily affecting children. According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 592 cases have been reported, leading to at least 37 fatalities. In response, Singapore has extended its support by donating critical surveillance equipment to the African CDC and offering training for healthcare personnel in the region.

Concerns Over H5N1

Minister Ong expressed concerns over H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, which poses one of the highest pandemic risks currently. Recently, the United States reported its first severe H5N1 case in Louisiana, where a 65-year-old man, who had contact with infected birds, was hospitalized in critical condition. Among the 61 reported H5N1 cases in the US, most have involved direct animal contact, raising alarms about the possibility of animal-to-human transmission. "We are specifically monitoring for evidence of human-to-human transmission," Ong warned, noting that such developments could indicate a mutation in the virus that might heighten its pandemic potential. Symptoms of H5N1 include severe respiratory issues such as high fever and difficulty breathing.

Mpox Surveillance

Moving on to the outbreak in the DRC, Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) has assessed that the risk of the disease spreading to Singapore is low, attributing the fatalities to severe malaria exacerbated by malnutrition among children in affected regions. Further investigations will determine if other diseases may be contributing to the alarming case rates.

Another disease under surveillance is mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), particularly the clade I variant, which continues to cause concern in parts of Africa while accounting for sporadic imported cases in places like Thailand and the UK. A recent cluster of cases in Germany, linked to a traveler returning from Africa, underscores the potential for local outbreaks. Ong cautioned that it is only a matter of time before Singapore may encounter imported or even local mpox cases. Fortunately, historical trends suggest that most mpox cases do not lead to severe outcomes, particularly in countries like Rwanda, where recovery rates are generally positive.

Current Covid-19 Situation

In terms of Covid-19, Minister Ong noted that the current dominant strain, MV.1, now accounts for about 30% of local infections. Despite predictions of a year-end surge in cases, health authorities have observed a stable situation with no significant spike. This could be attributed to the natural flattening of infection waves, as more individuals become infected over time.

Updated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna have been rolled out in Singapore since October, providing a crucial tool in managing Covid-19 risks.

Telehealth Sector Issues and Regulations

On a separate note, Ong addressed recent issues in the telehealth sector, stating that while some providers have experienced lapses in compliance, there is no immediate need for new regulations. The Ministry of Health recently revoked the license of MaNaDr Clinic due to ethical and clinical standard violations, including excessively brief teleconsultations.

Conclusion

The health official made these remarks during a year-end celebration event for seniors, where community spirit was fostered through charitable contributions from organizations such as UPS. As Singapore braces for the challenges ahead, authorities remain committed to ensuring public health safety and readiness against potential pandemic threats.