Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on his Facebook page today that he has tested positive for Covid-19. This is the first time that he has contracted the virus.
PM Lee revealed that he received the positive test result this morning and shared an image of the test. Despite the diagnosis, he mentioned that he is generally feeling fine at the moment.
In compliance with medical advice, PM Lee will be self-isolating until he is no longer displaying symptoms, although he did not disclose whether he is currently experiencing any.
As a precautionary measure, he has been prescribed Paxlovid, an antiviral oral medication commonly used to treat mild to moderate cases of Covid-19 in adults. Given that PM Lee is 71 years old, it is crucial for him to take extra precautions and follow the prescribed treatment.
PM Lee has been receiving his Covid-19 vaccine booster shots, with the last one administered in November of the last year.
In light of his situation, he took the opportunity to remind the public about the importance of keeping their vaccinations up-to-date as a means of reducing the risk of severe illness.
In addition to his health update, PM Lee shared details about his recent work trips to South Africa and Kenya. From 14 to 16 May, he visited Cape Town, South Africa, where he engaged in meetings with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. He also had the opportunity to meet Deputy President Paul Mashatile and attend a reception with overseas Singaporeans during his visit.
Following his time in South Africa, PM Lee travelled to Nairobi, Kenya, from 17 to 19 May. While in Kenya, he had a meeting with Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto.
Throughout his travels, PM Lee was accompanied by a delegation of ministers and Members of Parliament, including Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Dr Janil Puthucheary, Alvin Tan, Mr Vikram Nair and Ms Mariam Jaafar.
Concluding his post, PM Lee urged fellow Singaporeans to prioritize their well-being as the virus remains endemic here in Singapore.
PM Lee’s statement on Facebook
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. They have also prescribed me Paxlovid, an antiviral medication, because of my age.
My most recent COVID-19 vaccine booster was in November. Please continue to keep your vaccinations up-to-date, as it reduces the risk of severe illness. As COVID-19 remains endemic in Singapore, we must continue to stay safe and healthy. – LHL