KEEPING VACCINATIONS UP-TO-DATE
On Wednesday, Mr Ong said that there are currently 560 hospitalisations and less than 10 in the intensive care unit (ICU) cases of COVID-19.
“All in all, I think we can still withstand this. We have gone through three over years of pandemic, with all kinds of … safe management measures.
“Finally, earlier this year, (we) got out of (Disease Outbreak Response System Condition) DORSCON Green,” said Mr Ong, referring to the lowest level of the disease alert put in place during the pandemic.
“Going back will be the last thing on our minds and also the last thing on Singaporeans’ minds.
“But given the healthcare burden that we are shouldering, I think we can withstand this quite smoothly.”
He added that everyone can also play their part such as observing good hygiene, avoiding contact with others, especially seniors, when sick, as well as wearing masks when going out.
Mr Ong also said that Singapore is “not just worried about COVID-19”, pointing to viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The Health Minister on Wednesday also highlighted that people in Singapore should continue to take their vaccines once a year, especially seniors above 60 and those with chronic illnesses.
He said that he is “reasonably optimistic” as 60 per cent of the population in Singapore were vaccinated in the last 12 months.
He added that if people in Singapore do not continue to vaccinate and wait until next year, the percentage may be much lower.
“And when another wave hits at that point in time, the impact will be greater, especially on the seniors,” said Mr Ong.
Asked whether the COVID-19 infections have peaked, the Health Minister said that it is “hard to tell”.
While there are about 5,000 COVID-19 cases a day, it is possible that the numbers may go up.
“But I think it’s not something that we’ve not seen before,” said Mr Ong.