Even though the Republic's Covid-19 situation has improved, the multi-ministry task force (MTF) handling the pandemic will not be abolished, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stated on Wednesday (Aug 24).
This is due to the fact that it is now unknown how the coronavirus will evolve and what the consequences of future mutations will be, he stated during the first MTF news conference held in person since March 24, 2020.
"It may be less severe, and we certainly hope so. However, it may also be more aggressive and hazardous "Mr. Wong, who has co-chaired the MTF from its creation, stated as much.
The task force was established in January of 2020 to coordinate government efforts to combat the Covid-19 virus.
Mr. Wong stated, "I want to tell you that the MTF is still active and that we are continuing to actively monitor the pandemic scenario."
He noted that measures are in place for a number of situations, such as expanding Singapore's healthcare capacity and vaccination operations if necessary.
Previously relaxed pandemic safeguards, including as border restrictions and safe management measures, can be reinstated if a more aggressive Covid-19 wave emerges in the future, he added.
Such measures can allow time to improve Singapore's healthcare capabilities or, if necessary, provide everyone with a second vaccination.
Mr. Wong, who is also the Minister of Finance, advised the public to preserve "solidarity, trust, and togetherness" during the epidemic.
"I hope we will never again be required to implement these steps. But prior experience has taught us that this is a tough virus, so we must expect the unexpected "he said.
Mr. Wong advised everyone to continue practicing personal and societal responsibility, despite the fact that many safety management practices are no longer enforced.
Seniors and immunocompromised individuals should continue to wear masks in crowded indoor environments to limit their chance of contracting Covid-19 and other respiratory illnesses, he advised, notwithstanding the lifting of the indoor mask mandate.
In addition, those who feel ill should continue to stay at home and avoid going out, while close contacts of Covid-19 patients should use antigen quick test kits to check they are negative before venturing outside during the following five days.
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