Recently, many have noticed colleagues and friends experiencing sore throat, body aches, and fever again as COVID-19 makes a resurgence...
COVID-19 Cases in Singapore
Significant Recent Increase!
In a joint statement on Tuesday (May 13), Singapore's Ministry of Health and the Infectious Diseases Division reported a rise in COVID-19 cases. Currently, the 'LF.7' and 'NB.1.8' subvariants—descendants of the 'JN.1' strain—are the dominant circulating variants in Singapore (accounting for over two-thirds of cases).
From April 27 to May 3, the estimated number of COVID-19 cases reached 14,200, up from 11,100 the previous week. The average daily cases also increased during this period. Hospitalizations rose from 102 to 133. Authorities noted that periodic waves of COVID-19 infections are expected throughout the year, similar to seasonal respiratory illnesses elsewhere.
Statistics show that flu cases in Singapore have been rising for seven consecutive weeks, with COVID-19 patients increasing to 17%—a new high for the year!
Singaporean netizen Yoka shared on social media: "Razor-throat pain + body aches + fever... After other symptoms improved, only the razor-throat pain remained. One test confirmed—it's back again!"
New COVID-19 Variant Emerges in Singapore in May
Many in Southeast Asia Affected!
This new variant in May has caused symptoms like severe throat swelling, razor-like throat pain (even swallowing becomes excruciating), persistent coughing, and in some cases, high fever!
Beyond Singapore, Bangkok, Thailand, reported nearly 15,000 COVID-19 cases from April 27 to May 3. By May 10, Thailand had recorded 53,676 cases and 16 deaths this year.
Bangkok has the highest infection rate. Unfortunately, many Chinese tourists visiting Thailand have also been infected...
The joint statement noted that, similar to other endemic respiratory diseases, periodic waves of COVID-19 infections are expected throughout the year. The recent rise in cases may be due to multiple factors, including waning herd immunity.
Currently, the dominant circulating variants in Singapore are LF.7 and NB.1.8, both descendants of the JN.1 strain, accounting for over two-thirds of sequenced cases. JN.1 is also the variant targeted by current COVID-19 vaccines.
How to Deal with COVID-19?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Boosts Immunity!
Experts warn that declining immunity may increase susceptibility to new (strains), especially higher-risk variants.
As Singapore enters a new wave of infections, more patients are turning to TCM for complementary treatment. Gong Fang Tang TCM Clinic, drawing on years of clinical experience, offers specialized TCM therapies for COVID-19 symptoms—including herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, foot baths, and dietary therapy—to help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.
From the Perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
"When vital energy (Zheng Qi) is abundant, pathogenic factors cannot invade."
"Where pathogenic factors gather, the vital energy must be deficient."
The internal cause of COVID-19 infection in TCM theory is insufficient vital energy (weakened immunity). The following preventive measures are recommended:
Personal Protection & Environmental Hygiene
Moxibustion (with common moxa sticks)
Anti-epidemic sachets
Maintain cleanliness in workspaces and homes.
In addition to regular disinfection, use TCM fumigation methods such as:
Lifestyle & Emotional Regulation
Adapt to seasonal changes.
Cultivate mental tranquility and emotional balance.
Maintain proper rest, avoid wind-cold exposure, and preserve vital energy.
Acupuncture & Moxibustion Therapy
Key acupoints: Guanyuan (CV4), Qihai (CV6), Zusanli (ST36)
Key moxibustion points: Guanyuan (CV4), Baihui (GV20), Shenque (CV8), Zusanli (ST36), Qihai (CV6)
Dr. Que Poh Yuen Albert from Gong Fang Tang TCM Clinic specializes in stimulating meridians and boosting Yang energy through acupuncture to enhance resistance against pathogens.
Home-Based Exercises
Practice Tai Chi, Ba Duan Jin (Eight Brocades), or Wu Qin Xi (Five Animal Frolics).
Combine with breathing techniques to harmonize body and mind, strengthening immunity and relieving fatigue.
Preventive Herbal Medicine (If Necessary)
Focus on fortifying the spleen and replenishing Qi, supplemented by nourishing Yin and promoting fluid production.
Appointment: +65 6243 2138
Location:
11 Tanjong Katong Road, #02-12 Kinex, Singapore 437157
WhatsApp: 8877 0582
We hope these methods can help. However, if you still contract COVID-19 and symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly.
