54 COVID-19 Cases Today (30 Aug); 8 Community Cases & 7 Imported Cases

Exactly one month ago, we thought we would be seeing fewer than 5 cases daily now with no more cases in the dormitories.

Unfortunately, the coronavirus is never predictable, and even as we approach the second last day of August, we’re still seeing multiple cases reported as clusters started to form in the dormitories again.

As of 12pm today (30 August), MOH reported 54  new COVID-19 cases.

This brings the total to 56,771.

There is a whopping 8 cases in the community and 7 imported cases.

All imported cases were placed on Stay-Home-Notice (SHN) upon arrival in Singapore.

On average, based on yesterday’s numbers, the number of new cases in the community has remained stable at an average of 2 cases per day in the past 2 weeks.

The number of unlinked cases in the community has also remained stable at an average of 1 case per day in the past 2 weeks.

And also, yesterday, it’s confirmed: you can’t substitute your masks with some cloth that you dug out from your cupboard.

MOH: Neck gaiters, Bandanas, Scarves or Handkerchiefs Not Considered Masks

Previously, the law indicates that the mask must closely and completely cover the nose and mouth (i.e. without leaving a gap between the mask and the face). In other words, using any cloth to cover your mouth and nose works.

However, last night, MOH has just said in a media release that they might not work well.

They mentioned that there “have been recent queries on the efficacy of makeshift coverings such as bandanas, scarves, and neck gaiters in preventing disease transmission. As these makeshift coverings may not have a good fit around the person’s nose and mouth and are made from materials that are not specific for disease prevention, they may not perform as well as purpose-built masks.

“To ensure transmission rates in the community are kept low, it is critical for every member of public to put on masks that are designed or made specifically to prevent disease transmission. A mask should be worn such that it closely and completely covers the wearer’s nose and mouth, without leaving a gap between the mask and the face.

“Therefore, face coverings such as neck gaiters, bandanas, scarves, or handkerchiefs should not be used.”

They have since updated the FAQs section of their website, so you can’t say I don’t know liao.

Can you hear the cheers from a certain bus captain?