Surprise, surprise. More new measures have been announced to curb the spread of Covid-19 in Singapore, following an increase in the number of cases. These have been implemented to slow down transmissions without having to go back to a state of heightened alert or a circuit breaker, said Finance Minister Lawrence Wong in an announcement on Monday (September 6).
Without further ado, here's a breakdown of the new measures:
Health risk warnings and health risk alerts
Here are two more terms you should get used to: health risk warnings (HRW) and health risk alerts (HRA).
When a new cluster is identified, health risk warnings (HRW) and health risk alerts (HRA) will be issued to exposed individuals. These warnings and alerts are different from quarantine orders (QO), which are legal orders issued to isolate an individual who is – or have been exposed to – a carrier of the virus.
HRW - Those who receive an HRW will be required by law to get a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result from their first test. They will be required to do an antigen rapid test (ART) thereafter, and another PCR test on the 14th day.
HRA - Those who receive an HRA are not subject to actions required by the law but are strongly encouraged to go for a PCR test as soon as possible. For both HRWs and HRAs, individuals should reduce their social interactions for 14 days.
Weekly testing of staff
Companies will be issued eight antigen rapid test (ART) kits per employee to facilitate weekly testing of staff over a two-month period. All companies are expected to initiate weekly testing for their onsite staff, to be administered by the individuals at home or at work. However, employers are required to have a process to ensure that tests are done properly, and all results are to be reported to the respective government agencies.
Limit yourself to one social gathering a day
We may still be able to dine out, but let's be socially responsible. For the next two weeks, Singapore residents are advised to limit themselves to one social gathering a day – regardless of whether they're going to another household or in a public place. Additionally, social gatherings at workplaces are no longer allowed from Wednesday, September 8.
Covid-19 booster shots
In addition to seniors, who are getting Covid-19 vaccine booster shots starting from later this month, the government is also considering booster shots. "This will not only protect them, but also help to slow down transmission," Lawrence Wong says.
This coupled with recent news of Singapore topping the list of the world's 15 most fatigued countries, it's safe to say that we've seen better days. But remember that times have been tough – so take it easy on yourself. While we follow social distancing measures and health precautions, do remember to keep your mental health in check.
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