Ever since a study found that asymptomatic patients can transmit Covid-19 to others, the Singapore government has stopped advising people to wear face masks only when unwell.
They even distributed reusable masks for free to citizens.
Sadly, it seems many Singaporeans still refuse to cover up when out. This poses a huge health risk when it comes to local transmissions, especially in crowded areas.
Hence, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has moved to deny entry to those not wearing face masks at markets from Sunday (12 Apr) onwards.
From Sunday (12 Apr), customers not wearing face masks will be denied entry at 40 markets managed by NEA or NEA-appointed operators.
In their statement on Friday (10 Apr), NEA said,
This move is to safeguard the health and well-being of all stallholders and patrons at our markets.
The list of markets includes:
To manage crowds, NEA has implemented measures such as controlling entry and exit points, as well as limiting crowd capacity to allow for 1-metre safe distancing.
While the statutory board acknowledged that overall adherence rates of safe distancing measures have increased, crowded markets still pose a threat to patrons.
That’s especially the case on weekends when large crowds and long queues were observed at markets in Geylang Serai, Jurong West, and Yishun.
Source
Hence, NEA advises citizens to go home and return on another day if queues for the markets are too long.
More stringent measures will be considered if the overcrowding situation does not improve.
NEA also advised the public to:
Vulnerable customers, like the elderly, should engage other family members or neighbours to help them buy food or groceries.
If we follow the guidelines set out by NEA and the government, we’re sure to reduce the chances of transmission. This not just protects us, but also the more vulnerable elderly.
While it’s understandable that breathing hot and humid air when donning face masks is uncomfortable, do keep in mind that this little action goes a long way, so let’s just bear with it for the time being.
As far as possible, stay home and avoid social gatherings. If you have to go out, remember to maintain a safe distance and wear a face mask.
Featured image adapted from Financial Times.
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