S’pore’s COVID-19 Vaccination Drive Brought Forward As More Supplies Arrived

By
Boon Hun
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This morning, we wrote about how the Ministry of Health (MOH) is streamlining the vaccination process.

In the process, we predicted that this might mean that the rest of Singapore could be vaccinated quicker.

Well, turns out, we were right, but it’s not just because of the streamlined process.

It’s because more stocks have arrived.

S’pore’s COVID-19 Vaccination Drive Brought Ahead of Schedule As More Supplies Arrived

According to a statement by MOH on 8 Mar 2021, more than 596,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines has been administered.

Out of these, 217,000 has completed the full vaccination (received two doses) while another 379,000 are waiting to receive their second dosage.

However, that’s not enough and they’re looking to kick the vaccination campaign into a higher gear.

Previously, it was mentioned that the progress for the elderly aged 70 and above is progressing smoothly, and that vaccination for the elderly in the 60 to 69 years old range will start around end-March.

However, because more vaccine supplies have arrived, they’re bringing the schedule forward for this group.

All elderly aged 60 to 69 will receive their invitation letters in the next few days, MOH says.

The letters will contain a unique booking link the elderly can use to book their appointment for the vaccination.

The elderly aren’t the only ones who are going to get their COVID-19 vaccine earlier either.

Essential Frontline Workers, High-Risk Groups & Essential Workers in Critical Function

Other than the elderly, MOH has also highlighted a few groups that they’ll extend COVID-19 vaccination to as more COVID-19 vaccine stocks arrive:

  • Other high-risk groups at risk of exposure to COVID-19
  • Essential personnel in other critical functions such as news reporters, delivery staff, postmen and bank staff
  • For people with multiple touchpoints with many others in the community such as those in the food delivery industry and those who work in hawker centres and markets
  • Educators and staff, starting from pre-school, national schools, ITEs, and polytechnics before moving on to other educational institutes

It’s not just Singaporeans, either.

Cargo Drivers & Migrant Workers

As the authorities aim to cover all corners, selected cargo drivers and accompanying staff who travels to Singapore often will be given the option to take the jab later this month.

While those who are not vaccinated can continue to enter Singapore, they will be subjected to on-arrival testing and other safety management measures.

COVID-19 vaccination will also start for migrant workers living in dormitories.

The first batch is 10,000 workers living in the five largest dormitories who were never infected with COVID-19.

I know what you’re thinking.

Got enough meh?

Don’t worry because MOH says they’ve ensured that there is enough to vaccinate everyone in Singapore.

Vaccination will be extended to other segments of the population from April 2021 onwards and all long-term residents and Singaporeans will get the chance to be vaccinated, the ministry assures.

For those interested in what MOH has done to streamline the vaccination process, you can check out this article here.

Feature Image: Ascannio / Shutterstock.com

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Boon Hun
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