Ishita Roy

Nag Panchami: Are We Killing Snakes by Feeding Them Milk?

Are We Killing Snakes by Feeding Them Milk 

Today is <span>Nag Panchami</span>, a festival that worships <span>snakes</span> in India. The conventional way to worship snakes is by feeding them <span>milk</span>. But did you know that feeding milk to snakes might kill them? That too in a painful manner. 

<h5>The Science Behind It</h5>Snakes are reptiles that hunt and eat meat, mostly rodents, birds, and other small animals. Snakes lack the enzymes required to break down lactose, the sugar present in milk, in contrast to mammals. As a result, forcing milk into a snake's digestive system might cause serious problems. In fact, snakes are <span>lactose intolerant</span>, experts say that snakes fed milk may experience bloating, indigestion, and dehydration. 

In extreme cases, this can lead to the death of the snake. 

Forest departments and wildlife experts have issued numerous warnings against this practice. For instance, in 2017 the Thane, Maharashtra, forest department issued a warning saying that giving milk to snakes is not only against nature but can be lethal. The department emphasised that these acts of devotion are cruel because they cause needless agony for the snakes. 

<h5>Misconceptions and Myths</h5>The idea that snakes consume milk is among the most widespread misconceptions about them. Stories from culture and religion that show snakes sipping milk tend to perpetuate this false idea. But milk isn't something that snakes look for to eat. 

Their action when dehydrated is not what is meant to be understood by the idea that they consume milk. A snake may swallow any liquid that is presented to it if it is extremely dehydrated, but this is a desperate move and does not mean that milk is a good food source for snakes. 

Wildlife experts emphasise that these <span>customs</span> are not grounded in science, but rather in superstition. These actions hurt snakes and spread unwarranted fear and false information about these reptiles, according to the staff at Wildlife SOS, an organization devoted to the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife. 

<h5>Awareness and Education</h5>Raising awareness and promoting education is crucial to stopping the dangerous habit of feeding milk to snakes. By dispelling the misconceptions about snakes and advancing knowledge of their nutritional requirements, we can help prevent needless injury to these reptiles. If you are reading this, then you can spread this information to people you know who might follow this custom. This is how awareness works. 

It is important to understand that, even while cultural customs are very important to us, they must change in tandem with scientific advancements to prevent harm from being done to the same creatures we wish to respect.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

lactose intolerant

nag panchami

snakes

milk

Health

Animal health

customs

Meet 'Doctor Peyo' - The Therapy Horse Who Is Changing End-of-Life Care

A Genetic Disorder Caused This Indonesian Tribe To Have Sparkling Blue Eyes

Biohacker Bryan Johnson Swaps Out His Plasma To Reverse Aging; How Does It Work?

Health News

Food Anxiety Is Real – How Your Food Intake Affects Your Anxiety

World Osteoporosis Month: Ways To Strengthen Your Bones

Brain Exercises To Keep You Cognitively Sharp

Easy Recipes To Make When You Don’t Wish To Cook

Physical Signs Of High Cortisol

9 Healthy Plant-Based Protein Rich Dishes To Try

What Happens When You Have Low Blood Pressure?

Throw These Toxic Bathroom Items Away To Protect Your Health

This Is What Cricket Superstar Virat Kohli Eats In A Day

Signs You Are Experiencing Sensory Overload

Shoulder Exercises You Should Do For Defined Shoulders

Best Foods To Eat When You Are Fasting

​Ghee For Ayurveda: Why It Should Be A Part Of Your Diet​

Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer You Should Know

Yoga Poses That Can Build Core Strength

Biotin-Rich Foods You Should Add To Your Diet

Unexpected Physical Signs Of Stress

Simple And Affective Guide To Stop A Panic Attack

Signs Of Heat Exhaustion In Children

10 Heart Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

Lower Your Cholesterol With These Foods

Food Myths You Should Stop Believing

Work Stressing You Out? Tips To Handle Toxic Workspaces

Looking To Gain Weight? High-Calorie Healthy Foods To Try

​Pomegranates Are A Must For Summer, Here’s Why​

​How Does Being A Night Owl Change Your Brain​

​Can Nightlights Affect Your Child’s Sleep​

How To Decide Whether You Should Do Cardio Or Strength Training?

Enjoying Hobbies As An Adult Is More Important Than You Realize

Screentime Matters For Parents Too, Here's How It Causes Issues

Why Should We Discard Expired Prescription Drugs?

Perks Of Having Home Plants For Your Health

Signs You Are Dealing With Depleted Mother Syndrome

Protein-Rich Fruit Smoothies You Must Try

Ways You Can Reach Out To Someone In A Mental Health Crisis

These Things Are Causing You To Lose Sleep

10 Healthy Soups That Support Weight Loss

Easy Lunch Ideas For People With Type 2 Diabetes

9 Bodyweight Exercises To Boost Strength Anytime, Anywhere

Iron-Rich Foods Every Woman Should Include in Her Diet

Today is Nag Panchami, a festival that worships snakes in India. The conventional way to worship snakes is by feeding them milk. But did you know that feeding milk to snakes might kill them? That too in a painful manner. The Science Behind ItSnakes are reptiles that hunt and eat meat, mostly rodents, birds, and other small animals. Snakes lack the enzymes required to break down lactose, the sugar present in milk, in contrast to mammals. As a result, forcing milk into a snake's digestive system might cause serious problems. In fact, snakes are lactose intolerant, experts say that snakes fed milk may experience bloating, indigestion, and dehydration. In extreme cases, this can lead to the death of the snake. Forest departments and wildlife experts have issued numerous warnings against this practice. For instance, in 2017 the Thane, Maharashtra, forest department issued a warning saying that giving milk to snakes is not only against nature but can be lethal. The department emphasised that these acts of devotion are cruel because they cause needless agony for the snakes. Misconceptions and MythsThe idea that snakes consume milk is among the most widespread misconceptions about them. Stories from culture and religion that show snakes sipping milk tend to perpetuate this false idea. But milk isn't something that snakes look for to eat. Their action when dehydrated is not what is meant to be understood by the idea that they consume milk. A snake may swallow any liquid that is presented to it if it is extremely dehydrated, but this is a desperate move and does not mean that milk is a good food source for snakes. Wildlife experts emphasise that these customs are not grounded in science, but rather in superstition. These actions hurt snakes and spread unwarranted fear and false information about these reptiles, according to the staff at Wildlife SOS, an organization devoted to the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife. Awareness and EducationRaising awareness and promoting education is crucial to stopping the dangerous habit of feeding milk to snakes. By dispelling the misconceptions about snakes and advancing knowledge of their nutritional requirements, we can help prevent needless injury to these reptiles. If you are reading this, then you can spread this information to people you know who might follow this custom. This is how awareness works. It is important to understand that, even while cultural customs are very important to us, they must change in tandem with scientific advancements to prevent harm from being done to the same creatures we wish to respect.

nag panchami: are we killing snakes by feeding them milk?

Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Unexpected Type 2 Diabetes 'Cure' Found In The Brain, Could This Be The Link In Treatment?

Fitness

What Is The 2-Per-20-Sitting-Walking Rule That Helps Lower Your Sugar?

what is the 2-per-20-sitting-walking rule that helps lower your sugar?

Health & Wellness

Children As Young As 10 Could Show Signs Of Heart Diseases- Look Out For This Factor

children as young as 10 could show signs of heart diseases- look out for this factor

World Hypertension Day: Why Hypertension Leads To Serious Health Problems?

world hypertension day: why hypertension leads to serious health problems?

Nutrition

This Common Energy Drink Ingredient Is Tied To Blood Cancer Risk

this common energy drink ingredient is tied to blood cancer risk

For years, type 2 <span>diabetes</span> has been viewed as a metabolic disorder rooted in lifestyle habits, obesity, and insulin resistance. But a new study, released in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, is challenging that underlying wisdom. In a stunning reversal, researchers have discovered that certain neurons in the brain specifically Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons in the hypothalamus could play an important role in the onset and resolution of type 2 diabetes.

This finding opens the door to an innovative treatment strategy- conditioning the brain to control blood sugar levels, perhaps without changing weight or food consumption. It's a breakthrough that can reimagine how the global medical community treats this chronic illness that plagues more than 400 million people around the world.

Up to this point, the brain was not thought to play a central role in type 2 diabetes pathology. However, investigators at UW Medicine have demonstrated that a hyperactive population of neurons, <span>AgRP neurons</span> found in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus disproportionately contribute to driving hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose).

Dr. Michael Schwartz, lead author on the study and a leading endocrinologist at the University of Washington, said, "These neurons are having an outsized impact in hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes." His researchers silenced the talking capability of AgRP neurons with viral genetics—namely, they introduced tetanus toxin to keep these neurons from talking to nearby cells. The findings were nothing short of revolutionary: blood glucose levels normalized for months in diabetic mice, even without adjustments in body weight or food consumption.

This finding contradicts the long-held dogma that weight gain and insulin resistance are the central causes of type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle and genetics are still major players, of course, but the brain's regulatory role in glucose metabolism is also proving to be a major if not central component of the puzzle.

The scientists observed additional modifications in the mice after AgRP neuron repression:

<ul><li>Lower plasma insulin levels, indicating higher insulin sensitivity</li><li>Higher liver glycogen, reflecting more effective glucose storage</li><li>Lower corticosterone (mouse equivalent of cortisol), which could indicate reduced physiological stress</li><li>Higher lactate levels, potentially increasing hepatic glucose uptake</li></ul>

These indicators as a whole indicate systemic restoration of glucose metabolism—initiated not by a pancreas-directed or weight-loss intervention, but by a brain-mediated one.

<h2>How This Research Relates to Ozempic?</h2>

Surprisingly, today's diabetes medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like the blockbuster medications Ozempic and Wegovy—are also known to suppress AgRP neurons. Dr. Schwartz theorizes that these brain-targeting actions may be a partial explanation for their glucose-lowering effects, independent of their well-characterized effect on weight loss.

The degree to which this effect underlies the antidiabetic action of these drugs is unknown," Schwartz said. But the link raises tantalizing possibilities: might stimulating or duplicating this brain suppression be a new, more effective route to remission from diabetes?

<h2>What Implications It Has For Humans?</h2>

Although models in animals are not always a good predictor of human outcomes, the repeatability across several mouse studies is encouraging. An earlier study by Schwartz's group had demonstrated that infusing the brain peptide FGF1 directly into the hypothalamus also resulted in diabetes remission—a response that was again linked to the suppression of AgRP neuron activity.

If the same mechanisms exist in humans, neuromodulation or precision-targeted drugs that quiet particular brain circuits could be future treatment—potentially presenting a backup for patients who have difficulty with lifestyle interventions or develop drug resistance.

<h2>Is Brain-Targeted Diabetes Therapies the New Treatment?</h2>

There are more questions than answers. Why do AgRP neurons get hyperactive in the first place? Can their activity be selectively and safely reduced in human beings? And could this be achieved without impacting other vital functions of the brain?

Dr. Schwartz points out that the study breaks with conventional thinking on diabetes and requires further investigation into the neurobiology of metabolic illness. "This could be a paradigm shift in how we approach and treat type 2 diabetes," he says.

The long-term aim is to translate this brain-based strategy from the bench to the bedside. Successful, it could not only transform diabetes care—it could also lead to greater interest in how the brain controls whole-body metabolism, with the potential for breakthroughs for other diseases linked to metabolic dysregulation.

With millions living with type 2 diabetes globally, the potential of a brain-based treatment framework is staggering. Learning that a few thousand neurons have the power to control blood sugar levels separate from weight loss may change the way the disease is treated, possibly putting an end to the suffering of patients who have long been battling traditional treatments.

As science continues to advance, the neurobiology of metabolism could become the new frontier in international diabetes management. The mind-body connection, it seems, might be more literal and potent than we ever envisioned.

diabetes

type 2 diabetes cure

agrp neurons

brain and diabetes link

diabetes remission study

hypothalamus and blood sugar

new diabetes treatment

fgf1 diabetes research

For years, type 2 diabetes has been viewed as a metabolic disorder rooted in lifestyle habits, obesity, and insulin resistance. But a new study, released in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, is challenging that underlying wisdom. In a stunning reversal, researchers have discovered that certain neurons in the brain specifically Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons in the hypothalamus could play an important role in the onset and resolution of type 2 diabetes.This finding opens the door to an innovative treatment strategy- conditioning the brain to control blood sugar levels, perhaps without changing weight or food consumption. It's a breakthrough that can reimagine how the global medical community treats this chronic illness that plagues more than 400 million people around the world.Up to this point, the brain was not thought to play a central role in type 2 diabetes pathology. However, investigators at UW Medicine have demonstrated that a hyperactive population of neurons, AgRP neurons found in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus disproportionately contribute to driving hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose).Dr. Michael Schwartz, lead author on the study and a leading endocrinologist at the University of Washington, said, "These neurons are having an outsized impact in hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes." His researchers silenced the talking capability of AgRP neurons with viral genetics—namely, they introduced tetanus toxin to keep these neurons from talking to nearby cells. The findings were nothing short of revolutionary: blood glucose levels normalized for months in diabetic mice, even without adjustments in body weight or food consumption.This finding contradicts the long-held dogma that weight gain and insulin resistance are the central causes of type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle and genetics are still major players, of course, but the brain's regulatory role in glucose metabolism is also proving to be a major if not central component of the puzzle.The scientists observed additional modifications in the mice after AgRP neuron repression:Lower plasma insulin levels, indicating higher insulin sensitivityHigher liver glycogen, reflecting more effective glucose storageLower corticosterone (mouse equivalent of cortisol), which could indicate reduced physiological stressHigher lactate levels, potentially increasing hepatic glucose uptakeThese indicators as a whole indicate systemic restoration of glucose metabolism—initiated not by a pancreas-directed or weight-loss intervention, but by a brain-mediated one.How This Research Relates to Ozempic?Surprisingly, today's diabetes medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like the blockbuster medications Ozempic and Wegovy—are also known to suppress AgRP neurons. Dr. Schwartz theorizes that these brain-targeting actions may be a partial explanation for their glucose-lowering effects, independent of their well-characterized effect on weight loss.The degree to which this effect underlies the antidiabetic action of these drugs is unknown," Schwartz said. But the link raises tantalizing possibilities: might stimulating or duplicating this brain suppression be a new, more effective route to remission from diabetes?What Implications It Has For Humans?Although models in animals are not always a good predictor of human outcomes, the repeatability across several mouse studies is encouraging. An earlier study by Schwartz's group had demonstrated that infusing the brain peptide FGF1 directly into the hypothalamus also resulted in diabetes remission—a response that was again linked to the suppression of AgRP neuron activity.If the same mechanisms exist in humans, neuromodulation or precision-targeted drugs that quiet particular brain circuits could be future treatment—potentially presenting a backup for patients who have difficulty with lifestyle interventions or develop drug resistance.Is Brain-Targeted Diabetes Therapies the New Treatment?There are more questions than answers. Why do AgRP neurons get hyperactive in the first place? Can their activity be selectively and safely reduced in human beings? And could this be achieved without impacting other vital functions of the brain?Dr. Schwartz points out that the study breaks with conventional thinking on diabetes and requires further investigation into the neurobiology of metabolic illness. "This could be a paradigm shift in how we approach and treat type 2 diabetes," he says.The long-term aim is to translate this brain-based strategy from the bench to the bedside. Successful, it could not only transform diabetes care—it could also lead to greater interest in how the brain controls whole-body metabolism, with the potential for breakthroughs for other diseases linked to metabolic dysregulation.With millions living with type 2 diabetes globally, the potential of a brain-based treatment framework is staggering. Learning that a few thousand neurons have the power to control blood sugar levels separate from weight loss may change the way the disease is treated, possibly putting an end to the suffering of patients who have long been battling traditional treatments.As science continues to advance, the neurobiology of metabolism could become the new frontier in international diabetes management. The mind-body connection, it seems, might be more literal and potent than we ever envisioned.

unexpected type 2 diabetes 'cure' found in the brain, could this be the link in treatment?

Riya Baibhawi

US Measles Cases Exceed 1,020 as RFK Jr Downplays Outbreaks

National Dengue Day 2025: Why Is Dengue Fever on the Rise Despite Vaccines?

national dengue day 2025: why is dengue fever on the rise despite vaccines?

New COVID-19 Wave Hits Asia With Singapore And Hong Kong Reporting Sharp Rise In Cases

new covid-19 wave hits asia with singapore and hong kong reporting sharp rise in cases

WHO Declares Polio Outbreak In Papua New Guinea

who declares polio outbreak in papua new guinea

As Covid-19 Cases Spike In Hong Kong, Singapore; Is The Next Pandemic Wave Starting In Asia?

as covid-19 cases spike in hong; singapore, is the next pandemic wave starting in asia?

United States (US) is witnessing a concerning surge in <span>measles</span> cases, with more than 1,000 reported so far since the beginning of 2025. This is only the second time since the disease was declared eliminated in America 25 years ago that the number of cases has risen this high. A widespread outbreak spanning at least 30 American states continues to escalate, placing the country on course for what could become the worst year for measles since 2000. 

On Friday, at least 1024 cases of the disease were reported of the highly contagious disease. In 2024, the total number of cases reported were 285. Cases have been reported by 30 states, and there have been 14 outbreaks. Most cases—947 out of the total 1024—are outbreak associated. Meanwhile, the vaccination status of 96% of all cases is classified as "unvaccinated or unknown."

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has continuously downplayed the outbreak. After the death of a 6-year-old boy in February, Kennedy said the child’s death was "not unusual." "We have measles outbreaks every year,” he said at the time." But this spread is unlike others the US has previously seen, becoming the second-highest case count in 25 years. After facing criticism, Kennedy slightly walked back his comments after attending the funeral of an 8-year-old Texas girl who died from measles at the start of April. 

Ever since then, Kennedy Jr has continued to downplay the disease. In April, he baselessly claimed that the <span>measles vaccine</span> "contains a lot of aborted fetus debris and DNA particles. He then went on a TV appearance to tell parents to "Do your research" on vaccines, without specifying any information sources. In the latest development, he asked people not to follow his medical advice. 

US health secretary Kennedy Jr refused to say whether he would vaccinate his children if he had to choose today, and defended Republicans’ proposal to cut healthcare to fund tax cut extensions.  “What I would say is my opinions about vaccines are irrelevant … I don’t want to seem like I’m being evasive, but I don’t think people should be taking advice, medical advice, from me."

mEASLES

us MEASLES OUTBREAK

US MEASLES

RFK JR

mEASLES VACCINE

United States (US) is witnessing a concerning surge in measles cases, with more than 1,000 reported so far since the beginning of 2025. This is only the second time since the disease was declared eliminated in America 25 years ago that the number of cases has risen this high. A widespread outbreak spanning at least 30 American states continues to escalate, placing the country on course for what could become the worst year for measles since 2000. On Friday, at least 1024 cases of the disease were reported of the highly contagious disease. In 2024, the total number of cases reported were 285. Cases have been reported by 30 states, and there have been 14 outbreaks. Most cases—947 out of the total 1024—are outbreak associated. Meanwhile, the vaccination status of 96% of all cases is classified as "unvaccinated or unknown."Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has continuously downplayed the outbreak. After the death of a 6-year-old boy in February, Kennedy said the child’s death was "not unusual." "We have measles outbreaks every year,” he said at the time." But this spread is unlike others the US has previously seen, becoming the second-highest case count in 25 years. After facing criticism, Kennedy slightly walked back his comments after attending the funeral of an 8-year-old Texas girl who died from measles at the start of April. Ever since then, Kennedy Jr has continued to downplay the disease. In April, he baselessly claimed that the measles vaccine "contains a lot of aborted fetus debris and DNA particles. He then went on a TV appearance to tell parents to "Do your research" on vaccines, without specifying any information sources. In the latest development, he asked people not to follow his medical advice. US health secretary Kennedy Jr refused to say whether he would vaccinate his children if he had to choose today, and defended Republicans’ proposal to cut healthcare to fund tax cut extensions.  “What I would say is my opinions about vaccines are irrelevant … I don’t want to seem like I’m being evasive, but I don’t think people should be taking advice, medical advice, from me."

us measles cases exceed 1,020 as rfk jr downplays outbreaks

As Covid-19 Cases Spike In Hong; Singapore, Is The Next Pandemic Wave Starting In Asia?

National Dengue Day 2025: Theme, Importance, Significance, and Origin

national dengue day 2025: theme, importance, significance, and origin

Going Vegetarian? These Protein-Packed Vegetables Have You Covered

going vegetarian? these protein-packed vegetables have you covered

As so much of the world adjusts to a new beat of post-pandemic existence, the virus responsible for one of the 21st century's most significant worldwide health crises continues to mutate, perturb, and resurface. In the past few weeks, Southeast Asia has been back in the international limelight, with high Covid-19 case spikes reported in Hong Kong and Singapore—two of the world's most important international centers. The episode has created fresh alarm about whether Asia is on the cusp of a second wave of pandemics, and what implications that has for the health world.

Latest figures from Southeast Asian health ministries show a sudden spike in Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health's infrequent update—its first in almost a year—registered a 28% increase in weekly cases to 14,200 in the week up to May 3. Daily hospital admissions have also risen around 30%.

At the same time, Hong Kong is also facing a sharp spike. The Centre for Health Protection reported that the rate of positivity of respiratory samples jumped from 1.7% in mid-March to 11.4%—higher than the peak reached in August 2024. There have been 30 deaths among 81 severe adult cases over the last month, most involving people above 65 and with prior medical conditions.

The trend is troubling and part of a larger pattern spreading across the region. Thailand saw new clusters of infections after its heavily promoted Songkran holiday in April, and mainland China's test positivity rates have increased by more than two times since late March, nearing that of its summer 2024 wave.

<h2>What's Fueling the Latest Covid-19 Surge in 2025?</h2>

The increase in Covid cases does not seem to be driven by much more virulent strain. Singapore's health ministry reports that the leading strains—LF.7 and NB.1.8, both offshoots of the JN.1 Omicron branch—do not at this moment have higher rates of transmission or severity compared to previous strains.

Rather, specialists attribute a blend of declining immunity and enhanced public mobility as the most probable causes. Booster vaccination rates have declined throughout the region, and without any dramatic changes in variants, numerous individuals have presumed the danger has reduced. But as immunity wears off with time and preventive measures such as masking and distancing are forsaken, populations become more vulnerable to infection—even from previously circulating strains.

Seasonality has also diminished. In contrast to other respiratory diseases that rose during winter months, Covid-19 continues to confound seasonal patterns, with waves now mounting even as the Northern Hemisphere enters summer. This unpredictability highlights the endemic character of the virus—and the necessity for vigilance to continue.

Asian governments are reacting cautiously, but not alarmingly. Singapore has urged high-risk individuals—such as the elderly and immunocompromised—against taking an extra dose of vaccine if over a year has lapsed from their previous shot. It has also reminded everyone of the need for face-masking in crowded areas, hand washing, and self-isolation when unwell.

In Hong Kong, higher viral loads in sewage and rising medical consultations for respiratory symptoms have led authorities to term activity as "quite high." Public awareness campaigns are being reinstated, and local politicians are demanding stronger protection for the vulnerable.

China and Thailand also have recognized the increase but are not imposing limiting measures. They're instead urging citizens to stay current with their vaccinations and exercise personal caution.

<h2>What Are the Symptoms of the New Covid Variants in 2025?</h2>

As typical Covid-19 presentation through fever, cough, and sore throat continues to be widespread, new strains are manifesting with varied symptom patterns. Of specific note is anosmia (loss of smell), an earlier signature presentation that waned with Omicron but has been increasingly reported more recently with JN.1 infection, particularly in Europe.

Medical professionals also continue to point to the risk of Long Covid—ongoing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and brain fog—that even for mild infections can continue indefinitely. These long-term symptoms are still a big concern for international health systems and are yet another reason that ongoing monitoring and mitigation strategies are needed.

<h2>Is the World Ready for Another Wave?</h2>

Although today's reality in Asia does not yet justify claims of a fresh world wave, the trends are familiar—and ominous. Covid-19's recurrence in largely vaccinated, metropolitan populations serves as a reminder that the disease never vanished. It merely adapted, evolved, and learned how to take advantage of gaps in immunity and behavior.

For the time being, international health officials are waiting closely. The World Health Organization has not issued new warnings but remains monitoring mutations and case trends. Priority is being kept on safeguarding high-risk populations, accelerating lagging vaccination programs, and maintaining health systems' ability to endure localized surges.

The recent surge in Covid-19 cases throughout Asia might not foretell a crisis of 2020 scale, but it marks a crucial stage in the evolution of the pandemic. The virus is endemic—but dynamic. It needs adaptive, flexible responses that weigh public health against everyday existence.

As countries move through this next stage, the lesson continues: complacency is the enemy. Vigilance, vaccination, and responsible public action are still our best weapons for keeping one step ahead of Covid-19, whether in Asia, the U.S., or anywhere else on the planet.

covid-19 in singapore

covid-19 2025

covid-19 spike in asia

hong kong covid cases 2025

singapore covid wave may 2025

rising covid cases southeast asia

new covid variants symptoms 2025

asia pandemic alert

long covid symptoms 2025

As so much of the world adjusts to a new beat of post-pandemic existence, the virus responsible for one of the 21st century's most significant worldwide health crises continues to mutate, perturb, and resurface. In the past few weeks, Southeast Asia has been back in the international limelight, with high Covid-19 case spikes reported in Hong Kong and Singapore—two of the world's most important international centers. The episode has created fresh alarm about whether Asia is on the cusp of a second wave of pandemics, and what implications that has for the health world.Latest figures from Southeast Asian health ministries show a sudden spike in Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health's infrequent update—its first in almost a year—registered a 28% increase in weekly cases to 14,200 in the week up to May 3. Daily hospital admissions have also risen around 30%.At the same time, Hong Kong is also facing a sharp spike. The Centre for Health Protection reported that the rate of positivity of respiratory samples jumped from 1.7% in mid-March to 11.4%—higher than the peak reached in August 2024. There have been 30 deaths among 81 severe adult cases over the last month, most involving people above 65 and with prior medical conditions.The trend is troubling and part of a larger pattern spreading across the region. Thailand saw new clusters of infections after its heavily promoted Songkran holiday in April, and mainland China's test positivity rates have increased by more than two times since late March, nearing that of its summer 2024 wave.What's Fueling the Latest Covid-19 Surge in 2025?The increase in Covid cases does not seem to be driven by much more virulent strain. Singapore's health ministry reports that the leading strains—LF.7 and NB.1.8, both offshoots of the JN.1 Omicron branch—do not at this moment have higher rates of transmission or severity compared to previous strains.Rather, specialists attribute a blend of declining immunity and enhanced public mobility as the most probable causes. Booster vaccination rates have declined throughout the region, and without any dramatic changes in variants, numerous individuals have presumed the danger has reduced. But as immunity wears off with time and preventive measures such as masking and distancing are forsaken, populations become more vulnerable to infection—even from previously circulating strains.Seasonality has also diminished. In contrast to other respiratory diseases that rose during winter months, Covid-19 continues to confound seasonal patterns, with waves now mounting even as the Northern Hemisphere enters summer. This unpredictability highlights the endemic character of the virus—and the necessity for vigilance to continue.Asian governments are reacting cautiously, but not alarmingly. Singapore has urged high-risk individuals—such as the elderly and immunocompromised—against taking an extra dose of vaccine if over a year has lapsed from their previous shot. It has also reminded everyone of the need for face-masking in crowded areas, hand washing, and self-isolation when unwell.In Hong Kong, higher viral loads in sewage and rising medical consultations for respiratory symptoms have led authorities to term activity as "quite high." Public awareness campaigns are being reinstated, and local politicians are demanding stronger protection for the vulnerable.China and Thailand also have recognized the increase but are not imposing limiting measures. They're instead urging citizens to stay current with their vaccinations and exercise personal caution.What Are the Symptoms of the New Covid Variants in 2025?As typical Covid-19 presentation through fever, cough, and sore throat continues to be widespread, new strains are manifesting with varied symptom patterns. Of specific note is anosmia (loss of smell), an earlier signature presentation that waned with Omicron but has been increasingly reported more recently with JN.1 infection, particularly in Europe.Medical professionals also continue to point to the risk of Long Covid—ongoing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and brain fog—that even for mild infections can continue indefinitely. These long-term symptoms are still a big concern for international health systems and are yet another reason that ongoing monitoring and mitigation strategies are needed.Is the World Ready for Another Wave?Although today's reality in Asia does not yet justify claims of a fresh world wave, the trends are familiar—and ominous. Covid-19's recurrence in largely vaccinated, metropolitan populations serves as a reminder that the disease never vanished. It merely adapted, evolved, and learned how to take advantage of gaps in immunity and behavior.For the time being, international health officials are waiting closely. The World Health Organization has not issued new warnings but remains monitoring mutations and case trends. Priority is being kept on safeguarding high-risk populations, accelerating lagging vaccination programs, and maintaining health systems' ability to endure localized surges.The recent surge in Covid-19 cases throughout Asia might not foretell a crisis of 2020 scale, but it marks a crucial stage in the evolution of the pandemic. The virus is endemic—but dynamic. It needs adaptive, flexible responses that weigh public health against everyday existence.As countries move through this next stage, the lesson continues: complacency is the enemy. Vigilance, vaccination, and responsible public action are still our best weapons for keeping one step ahead of Covid-19, whether in Asia, the U.S., or anywhere else on the planet.

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.