SINGAPORE: A 13-month-old Singaporean boy who contracted COVID-19 died on Oct 12, becoming the country’s first COVID-19 death under the age of 12 this year.
In response to CNA’s queries, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said on Saturday (Nov 25) that the baby was “unvaccinated for COVID-19” and had a “significant medical history of a congenital condition” with a poor prognosis prior to his infection by the virus.
“He tested positive for COVID-19 on Oct 10, 2023 and was admitted to the hospital on the same day,” MOH added.
“The patient passed away on Oct 12, and the cause of death was acute COVID-19 infection, with his congenital condition being a contributing cause.”
MOH also confirmed this is Singapore’s first death caused by COVID-19 in a patient aged below 12 years old in 2023.
Three children died from COVID-19 last year, while there were no COVID-19 deaths in children in 2020 or 2021.
“The risk of severe COVID-19 in young children is lower than that in older adults, but severe outcomes can still occur, particularly in those who have underlying medical conditions and who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19,” MOH said.
The ministry also urged all individuals aged six months and above are encouraged to ensure that their COVID-19 vaccination status is up to date, based on the prevailing recommendations for them.
In October, Singapore updated its COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, encouraging people aged six months and above to receive an additional dose in 2023 or 2024.
Eligible individuals may receive the additional dose about a year – and no earlier than five months – after their last shot.
Operating hours for the Joint Testing and Vaccination Centres can be found here.
People may also receive COVID-19 vaccinations at these clinics.