PUBLISHED ONSeptember 01, 2026 8:01 AMBYSean LerSingapore is experiencing an increase in influenza cases, but there is no indication that infections are more severe than usual, the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) said on Tuesday (Sept 1).
Data from the agency showed that number of patients who tested positive for influenza increased to 36.6 per cent in the week of Aug 16 to 22, compared to 24 per cent in the previous week.
CDA data also showed that the current influenza positivity levels remain below the peak of 43.9 per cent recorded in January last year.
The authority said its national surveillance data shows that seasonal influenza viruses circulate throughout the year, with periods of higher activity typically observed between May to August and December to March.
"These bimodal peaks broadly coincide with the Northern and Southern Hemisphere winter periods, but their timing may vary from year to year due to factors such as international travel and population mixing patterns," CDA added.
Persons with mild acute respiratory infection symptoms should stay at home until their symptoms resolve, advised CDA.
If there is a need to go out while symptomatic, they should minimise social interactions, wear a mask, and avoid crowded places or meeting medically vulnerable persons.
Medically vulnerable persons include seniors and those with chronic medical conditions.
Those who find themselves with severe, prolonged, or worsening symptoms, should also see a doctor, CDA said.
Seniors aged 65 and above, children aged six months to five years, and those with underlying medical conditions are considered to be at higher risk of developing severe influenza infections.
They are recommended to receive their influenza vaccinations at least once a year.
Individuals may book their influenza vaccination appointments at participating Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) general practitioner clinics or polyclinics.
Eligible adults aged 18 and above may also receive influenza vaccination at participating retail pharmacies under the Ministry of Health's community pharmacist influence vaccination sandbox.
Those who are enrolled in Healthier SG are encouraged to book their vaccination appointment at their enrolled clinics.
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