Singapore’s PM Lee tests positive for COVID-19

Singapore’s PM Lee tests positive for COVID-19

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has tested positive for Covid-19 after recent visits to South Africa and Kenya. The news was announced by Lee himself in a Facebook post on Monday. In the post, he stated, “I tested positive for Covid-19 for the first time this morning. This comes after my recent work trips. I am generally feeling OK but my doctors have advised me to self-isolate until I am asymptomatic.”

photo by: cna

Despite feeling generally well, Prime Minister Lee mentioned that his doctors have prescribed him Paxlovid, an antiviral medication, due to his age. At 71 years old, Lee is considered to be in a higher-risk age group for Covid-19 complications.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Prime Minister Lee had been in South Africa and Kenya from May 14 to May 19. It is believed that he may have contracted the virus during one of these visits. Singapore has been actively engaging in diplomatic efforts and maintaining international relations, which led to Lee’s recent travels.

This announcement comes at a time when Singapore is trying to contain a recent surge in Covid-19 infections. The country experienced a peak in cases during April, prompting the government to implement stricter measures and vaccination campaigns. However, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung revealed on May 9 that only about half of the population aged 60 and above have remained up-to-date with their Covid-19 vaccinations. This decline from the earlier 58% at the start of 2023 raises concerns about the overall vaccination rate and the potential impact on vulnerable individuals.

Photo by: cnbc

Prime Minister Lee’s positive test serves as a reminder of the continued threat posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, even for those in leadership positions. It highlights the importance of following health protocols, maintaining vigilance, and ensuring widespread vaccination to protect both individuals and the community as a whole.

As Lee enters a period of self-isolation and follows the advice of his doctors, the government will continue to function with Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat assuming more responsibilities temporarily. Singaporeans will be closely monitoring the situation and wishing their Prime Minister a swift recovery.

The news of Prime Minister Lee testing positive for Covid-19 also serves as a reminder for individuals to remain cautious, adhere to safety guidelines, and prioritize vaccination to combat the ongoing pandemic. The government continues to urge citizens to stay vigilant, get vaccinated, and collectively work towards overcoming this global health crisis.