Over 40% of those aged 55+ express reluctance, raising concerns about future immunity.
SINGAPORE: A recent survey by vaccine maker Moderna and research firm YouGov reveals a noticeable decline in the willingness of Singaporeans, especially older adults, to receive COVID-19 booster doses. Conducted from March 28 to April 5, 2024, the survey included 1,300 participants and highlights shifting perspectives on vaccination in the country.
The survey found that over 40% of Singaporeans aged 55 and older do not intend to get a booster dose, marking a significant drop in enthusiasm for ongoing COVID-19 vaccinations. This reluctance persists despite general awareness of the importance of maintaining health through preventive measures like regular check-ups and balanced living.
Key Findings
Growing Resistance: Over 51% of respondents believe booster doses are unnecessary, an increase from prior surveys.
Declining Vaccine Uptake: The percentage of those unwilling to vaccinate at all rose from 35.2% in 2023 to 40.7% in 2024.
Age-Group Analysis: Individuals aged 35–54 showed the greatest resistance to boosters, signaling increasing skepticism toward continued vaccination efforts.
Changing Risk Perception
The survey also highlights evolving attitudes towards COVID-19. Fewer people now perceive the virus as a moderate-risk threat, with more individuals categorizing it as low or very low risk. These findings indicate a shift towards normalcy in post-pandemic Singapore but also pose challenges for public health strategies aiming to sustain immunity levels.
Expert Concerns
Health experts caution that reduced booster uptake could jeopardize community immunity, particularly if new variants emerge. Policymakers may need to address these trends to ensure Singapore remains resilient against future outbreaks.
This changing landscape prompts questions about how the nation will adapt its public health policies to balance individual choice with collective well-being.
