As the Covid-19 outbreak worsens in other parts of the world, Singapore is tightening measures to contain the virus.
Thus, all Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs) will be issued a Stay-Home Notice (SHNs) if they have returned from Italy, France, Spain and Germany within the last 14 days.
New visitors who have been to these countries cannot enter the country.
Furthermore, any traveller entering Singapore needs to serve a SHN if they have Covid-19 symptoms. This is regardless of the test results, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH) on 13 Mar.
These additional travel-related measures were among many others announced by MOH, targetted at curbing the spread of Covid-19 in Singapore.
Singaporeans are also advised to defer non-essential travels to countries that are gravely affected by Covid-19.
Starting from 15 Mar at 11.59pm, all new visitors who had been to Italy, France, Spain, and Germany will not be allowed entry into or transit through Singapore.
Similarly, Singaporeans, PRs, and long-term pass holders who have been to the aforementioned countries within the last 14 days will receive an SHN.
They will not be able to leave their homes at all for 14 days after they arrive in Singapore.
Travellers showing any sign of fever or respiratory symptoms at international checkpoints will need to serve the 14-day SHN. This is regardless of their swab test results for Covid-19.
Positive or negative, all are required to stay home. Those who meet the clinical suspect case definition will be presented to the hospital for follow-up.
While we cannot close our borders, sustainable measures must still be put in place to control the situation.
Minister for National Development Mr Lawrence Wong, who is also co-chair of the taskforce against Covid-19, added that the authorities know they have to do more within Singapore to contain the virus.
Thus, social activities with crowds having more than 250 people will be cancelled.
We hope that with these additional measures, Singapore will be able to successfully curb the spread of Covid-19.
In the meantime, let us support these efforts by practising good personal hygiene — wash your hands regularly and avoid sharing food as well.
If you are feeling unwell, please visit a doctor.
Featured image adapted from CNA via YouTube.
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