Covid-19 Wave Could Have Arrived Earlier As More Singaporeans Travelled During June Holidays
After taking long hiatuses from travelling, many Singaporeans have been eager to indulge their travel bug over the recent June holidays.
This could be why the current Covid-19 wave arrived at our shores earlier than expected, said Health Minister Ong Ye Kung on Tuesday (28 Jun).
Source: Lianhe Zaobao
Previously, Mr Ong had said that Singapore should expect the next Covid-19 wave in July or August. However, Singapore is now already seeing a surge.
Mr Ong shared that this wave is not expected to be as bad as the one in February but MOH will closely monitor the situation, reported Lianhe Zaobao.
Covid-19 wave could be caused by increased holiday travels
Speaking to Lianhe Zaobao after the Chinese Development Assistance Council’s (CDAC) 30th annual general meeting, Mr Ong said the current Covid-19 wave arrived in Singapore earlier than expected.
The Health Minister had earlier shared that the wave could happen in July or August.
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Its early arrival may be attributed to the fact that many Singaporeans travelled during the June holidays, including to Europe.
In the past week, 45% of Singapore’s community cases have been due to the new Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5.
Nonetheless, Mr Ong shared that the Ministry of Health (MOH) does not think this wave will be more serious than the one in February.
The ministry will continue to closely monitor the situation.
Seniors urged to get booster shots ASAP
As we face another wave, Mr Ong said it is of utmost importance that hospitals are given enough support.
He went on to add that the three new nursing homes that opened in April are also very important.
Hospitals could transfer senior patients with little or no symptoms to these homes, relieving some of their pressure.
Additionally, Mr Ong urged seniors to get their booster shots as soon as possible, reported Lianhe Zaobao.
Ong Ye Kung Urges Seniors Above 60 To Get Booster Shots Ahead Of Next Omicron Wave
He explained that while two doses might have been sufficient to combat the previous Omicron variant, these new subvariants require three doses to ensure protection.
Observe prevailing restrictions
Yesterday, Singapore’s Covid-19 numbers reached a 3-month high of 11,504 cases.
While there’s no need to panic, the numbers are a poignant reminder not to take our current freedoms for granted.
So as authorities keep a close eye on the situation, do remember to do your part as well and observe the prevailing rules and restrictions.
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Featured image adapted from Changi Airport.
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