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Singapore is facing a notable surge in chikungunya cases, with 17 reported by early August 2025, more than double the previous year’s count. The rise began in May and accelerated through July, largely driven by travellers returning from outbreak zones like China and Indian Ocean islands. While local transmission remains low, the presence of Aedes mosquitoes poses an ongoing risk.
Chikungunya, a virus spread by mosquito bites, causes fever, rash, and severe joint pain, and though rarely fatal, it can lead to lasting discomfort. China’s outbreak has surpassed 8,000 cases, prompting global health alerts from the World Health Organisation (WHO). Singaporean authorities urge preventive measures such as repellents, protective clothing and mosquito control. More on the rising chikungunya cases here.
Singapore’s universities are fighting back against youth vaping with new disposal bins and stricter campus rules. The “Bin the Vape” campaign offers students a safe, discreet and penalty-free way to quit, while institutions ramp up surveillance and education.
While disciplinary actions remain for those caught vaping, voluntary disposal and help-seeking are encouraged. Institutions like NUS and NTU have introduced stricter rules, including suspensions and housing bans, alongside enhanced surveillance and education. With 2,000 cases reported in 2024, the crackdown is timely and necessary.
Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates.
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Singapore monitors chikungunya surge after 17 cases reported in August
Singapore reported 17 chikungunya cases, most linked to overseas travel. Local transmission remains low. (Photo: ROSLAN RAHMAN/AFP via Getty Images)
Singapore is seeing an increase in chikungunya cases, with 17 reported by 2 August, more than double the count from the same period last year. Health authorities recorded a steady increase in cases that saw nine infections May, 13 in June and 16 in July.
Most infections are linked to travellers returning from outbreak zones, including China and Indian Ocean islands like La Réunion and Mayotte. Local transmission remains limited, but the presence of Aedes mosquitoes keeps health officials on high alert.
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that causes fever, rash and debilitating joint pain. Though rarely fatal, it can lead to long-term disability. Symptoms are managed with rest and fluids.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a global warning, urging countries to ramp up mosquito control and public awareness. China, facing its largest outbreak since 2008, has reported over 8,000 cases, mostly in Foshan.
The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) advises travellers to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing and seek medical attention if symptoms arise. Preventing mosquito breeding at home is also key.
Read on the rising chikungunya cases here.
Vape bins rolled out across Singapore universities
Universities join forces to curb student vaping with discreet disposal bins. (Photo: Straits Times)
Singapore’s six autonomous universities have installed vape disposal bins as part of the “Bin the Vape” campaign, a joint initiative by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and People’s Association (PA). With youth vaping cases doubling to 2,000 in 2024, the move aims to offer a discreet, penalty-free way for students to surrender e-vaporisers.
Each university has placed at least one bin on campus, with plans to expand based on demand. The campaign also extends to 23 community clubs islandwide. Students caught vaping still face disciplinary action, but those who voluntarily dispose of devices or seek help are spared penalties.
Institutions like NUS and NTU have tightened rules, including suspensions and housing bans for offenders. Orientation sessions now include anti-vape education, and some campuses use CCTV and whistleblowing channels to monitor activity.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) is also classifying etomidate, a sedative found in some vapes, as a Class C controlled drug. An amnesty period allows users to surrender devices before the law kicks in.
With vaping increasingly linked to synthetic drug abuse and aggressive behaviour, Singapore’s universities are stepping up enforcement and support, joining the broader vape war against smugglers at land checkpoints and peddlers near schools.
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