MOH ramps up measures to manage hospital capacity and emphasizes vaccination as cases climb.
SINGAPORE: Amid a significant rise in COVID-19 cases, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has strongly recommended mask-wearing in crowded spaces, even for those without symptoms, particularly indoors or when visiting vulnerable individuals.
COVID-19 cases in Singapore surged to an estimated 56,043 from Dec 3 to Dec 9, a sharp 75% increase from the previous week. Hospitalizations climbed from 225 to 350 daily on average, and ICU admissions doubled from four to nine. Most infections are linked to the JN.1 variant, a sublineage of BA.2.86, which, according to MOH, does not appear more transmissible or severe than other variants.
Strengthening Healthcare Capacity
MOH announced it is actively working with hospitals to manage the growing patient load. Contingency measures include ensuring sufficient manpower, deferring non-urgent elective surgeries, and utilizing step-down facilities like Transitional Care Facilities and Mobile Inpatient Care@Home (MIC@Home).
To further alleviate pressure, a second COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF) will open at Singapore EXPO Hall 10, complementing the current facility at Crawfurd Hospital. Together, they will handle over 80 stable COVID-19 patients, with potential for expanded capacity if needed.
Vaccination and Public Responsibility
Vaccination remains Singapore’s primary defense against COVID-19. MOH data shows that individuals up to date with vaccinations have significantly lower hospitalization rates. From July to November, those not keeping up with vaccinations were 1.6 times more likely to require hospital care or ICU admission.
MOH urged seniors, medically vulnerable individuals, and residents of aged care facilities to receive updated vaccines if their last dose was more than a year ago. Vaccines are free at designated vaccination centers and selected clinics, with information available on gowhere.gov.sg/vaccine.
Public cooperation is also encouraged. MOH advises individuals with respiratory symptoms to stay home, avoid crowded areas, and wear masks, particularly at airports or during travel. The public is reminded to seek hospital emergency care only for severe or life-threatening conditions to preserve resources for critical cases.
Daily Updates on COVID-19 Cases
In response to the rising infections, MOH will update its estimated COVID-19 case count daily starting Dec 19. The data will incorporate polyclinic acute respiratory infection (ARI) cases and COVID-19 positivity rates to provide a clearer picture of the situation.
MOH emphasized that Singapore has weathered multiple waves of COVID-19 and will continue to do so with collective vigilance. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung reiterated that the nation remains resilient but stressed the importance of vaccinations and public adherence to safety measures to safeguard seniors and vulnerable populations.
