WHO Sings Praises Of Singapore’s Response To Covid-19 Outbreak
In response to the Covid-19 outbreak, the Singapore government has introduced countless protective measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Well, it seems like Singaporeans aren’t the only ones who took notice of these measures.
On Tuesday (18 Feb), World Health Organisation (WHO) officials praised the Singapore government for its efforts in combating the Covid-19 virus, and its commitment to not ‘leave any stones unturned’.
WHO chief praises Singapore for managing Covid-19 cases with “tremendous rigour”
According to The Straits Times, WHO chief Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke to Singapore Health Minister Gan Kim Yong on Monday (17 Feb).
The next day, Mr Ghebreyesus took to Twitter to praise Singapore for managing the imported Covid-19 cases with “tremendous rigour”.
WHO, via its official Twitter page, also posted quotes from the pair’s conversation.
In particular, WHO officials are “very impressed” by the ongoing contact tracing efforts to stop the transmission of the virus.
CID officers helping with contact tracing efforts
Source
The global health body also highlighted how Singapore is “leaving no stone unturned”, and conducting tests on anyone who display “influenza-like illness and pneumonia”.
Thankfully, the Singapore authorities have not found any proof to suggest there is community transmission taking place.
MOH activates 900 clinics to provide subsidised treatment
Just this week, the Ministry of Health activated more than 600 general practitioners to provide subsidised treatment and medication for patients with respiratory symptoms.
These clinics fall under the MOH’s Public Health Preparedness Clinics (PHPCs), and about 900 clinics are expected to be activated in total.
Under this scheme, Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) will pay a flat fee of just $10 for consultation and treatment. Seniors under the Pioneer and Merdeka generations will pay $5.
In light of the increasing Covid-19 cases in China, Ministry for National Development Lawrence Wong also announced the new Stay-Home Notice (SHN) on Monday (17 Feb).
The SHN will be served to all Singapore residents and long-term pass holders returning from mainland China, requiring them to stay home at all times over a 14-day period.
Those who flout the orders may have their passes revoked or face prosecution under the Infectious Diseases Act.
Let’s work together to eradicate the Covid-19 virus
We are heartened by the government’s proactive measures to safeguard Singaporeans from the infectious Covid-19 virus.
Let’s hope these measures will bear fruit soon and curb further spread of the virus here in Singapore.
During these trying times, remember to wash your hands with soap regularly and to seek medical help immediately if you’re not feeling well.
Together, we can work together to eradicate the virus, and be the role model the whole world looks up to.
Featured image adapted from Twitter.
