SINGAPORE – As the new Covid-19 variant XFG emerges in the region, recently identified in Malaysia, Singapore remains relaxed about any new public health measures. The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) has assured citizens there are no immediate plans for additional restrictions.

CDA officials stated on September 20 that XFG, first spotted in Singapore back in April, has now become the dominant strain in the country, accounting for over two-thirds of local samples analyzed during the week of September 7-13. Fortunately, early evidence suggests that XFG does not lead to more severe illness compared to its predecessors.

This variant is a descendant of the JN.1 strain, which, like XFG, is part of the Omicron family of Sars-CoV-2. Despite its spread, the overall number of Covid-19 cases in the community remains low, according to the CDA.

Health officials have reassured the public that existing Covid-19 vaccines should still be effective in protecting against severe cases of the new variant, especially for vulnerable groups. Vaccinations are particularly recommended for individuals over the age of 60, healthcare professionals, and those living or working with high-risk individuals.

For those exhibiting mild respiratory symptoms, the CDA advises staying home until recovery. If going out is unavoidable, wearing a mask and minimizing social interactions is strongly recommended.

The CDA is diligently monitoring both local and global Covid-19 developments to ensure the public’s safety.

Meanwhile, across the border, Malaysia’s Health Minister, Dzulkefly Ahmad, reported on September 19 that XFG has been detected in their country, constituting 8.2% of the nearly 43,000 cumulative Covid-19 cases reported during the 35th week of the epidemiological calendar.

This latest variant has been classified as a 'variant under monitoring' by the World Health Organisation due to its notable transmissibility and potential to evade immunity. Singapore’s proactive monitoring and public health strategies continue to prioritize community health and safety amidst these evolving challenges.