Thailand is unlikely to be shaken by Singapore’s latest Covid-19 surge, as the variant driving the outbreak has already made its way through the country, according to a leading Thai virologist.
The bigger concern, however, may be closer to home, with schools reopening and students expected to become a major force behind fresh transmission.
Prof Dr Yong Poovorawan, head of the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine, said Singapore’s rise in cases, largely linked to the NB.1.8.1 variant, should not trigger major alarm in Thailand.
Writing on Facebook, Dr Yong explained that NB.1.8.1 was already widespread in Thailand last year, appearing shortly after Songkran and circulating through the rainy season before fading towards the end of the year.
He said Singapore’s current outbreak was unexpected, especially as Covid-19 has continued to evolve globally, with newer R-lineage variants such as RV.1 now gaining attention.
However, Dr Yong said the name of the variant now matters less than before, as recent strains have not been linked to more severe disease and most people already carry some level of immunity.
He added that Singapore’s surge appears to follow a familiar seasonal rhythm, with Covid-19 often gaining ground around this time of year.
Thailand has seen a similar pattern in recent years, with infections usually climbing after Songkran, peaking between May and June, and gradually easing by August.
This year, however, the country avoided a major post-holiday spike despite crowded celebrations, heavy travel, and widespread public gatherings during Songkran.
Dr Yong said Covid-19 infections have only begun to rise in recent weeks, but the return of students to classrooms could give the virus fresh momentum.
He warned that schools may become an important transmission channel, not only for Covid-19 but also for influenza, the common cold, and other respiratory illnesses.
