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Government has imposed Code Red measures without calling the situation Code Red
- Thread starter LaoTze
- Start date
From asiaone.com:
What's the difference between TraceTogether vs SafeEntry?
TraceTogether — both token and mobile app — help identify people in close contact with those who test positive for Covid-19 with the use of proximity data via Bluetooth technology. They will then be alerted immediately to so they can help curb the spread of the coronavirus.
SafeEntry is a digital check-in system that helps keep track of the people who enter and exit locations so the Ministry of Health (MOH) can spot possible clusters when a Covid-19 case pops up.
What's the difference between TraceTogether vs SafeEntry?
TraceTogether — both token and mobile app — help identify people in close contact with those who test positive for Covid-19 with the use of proximity data via Bluetooth technology. They will then be alerted immediately to so they can help curb the spread of the coronavirus.
SafeEntry is a digital check-in system that helps keep track of the people who enter and exit locations so the Ministry of Health (MOH) can spot possible clusters when a Covid-19 case pops up.
From yahoo news:
Mandatory TraceTogether check-in pushed back from Dec to early next year
SINGAPORE — Checking in with the TraceTogether app or token will be mandatory at all public venues in Singapore “early next year”, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Monday (14 December), instead of this month.
This will be implemented after “everyone who wants a token has had a chance to collect one at a community club or centre in their constituency”, the MOH added.
This means that members of the public can still check-in via SafeEntry by scanning QR codes with a phone camera, or with the SingPass mobile app, or using an NRIC.
These would no longer be allowed once TraceTogether-only SafeEntry is rolled out.
Singapore is poised to achieve a participation rate of around 70 per cent in its TraceTogether programme by end-2020, which was set as one of the requirements before Singapore’s move to Phase 3, said Education Minister Lawrence Wong, who is co-chair of the COVID-19 multi-ministry taskforce, during an online press conference on the same day.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on Monday that Singapore will enter Phase 3 of its reopening on 28 December.
“But we will not stop there. We want to achieve an even higher participation rate, be it through the downloading of the TraceTogether app or the distribution of tokens, which will continue throughout all our community centres,” said Wong.
When the process has been completed, authorities will implement TraceTogether-only SafeEntry, he said.
Nationwide distribution of the TraceTogether tokens began on 14 September.
Mandatory TraceTogether check-in pushed back from Dec to early next year
SINGAPORE — Checking in with the TraceTogether app or token will be mandatory at all public venues in Singapore “early next year”, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Monday (14 December), instead of this month.
This will be implemented after “everyone who wants a token has had a chance to collect one at a community club or centre in their constituency”, the MOH added.
This means that members of the public can still check-in via SafeEntry by scanning QR codes with a phone camera, or with the SingPass mobile app, or using an NRIC.
These would no longer be allowed once TraceTogether-only SafeEntry is rolled out.
Singapore is poised to achieve a participation rate of around 70 per cent in its TraceTogether programme by end-2020, which was set as one of the requirements before Singapore’s move to Phase 3, said Education Minister Lawrence Wong, who is co-chair of the COVID-19 multi-ministry taskforce, during an online press conference on the same day.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on Monday that Singapore will enter Phase 3 of its reopening on 28 December.
“But we will not stop there. We want to achieve an even higher participation rate, be it through the downloading of the TraceTogether app or the distribution of tokens, which will continue throughout all our community centres,” said Wong.
When the process has been completed, authorities will implement TraceTogether-only SafeEntry, he said.
Nationwide distribution of the TraceTogether tokens began on 14 September.
From yahoo news:
COVID-19: Singapore's Phase 3 to begin on 28 Dec, maximum 8 per group – PM Lee
SINGAPORE — Singapore will enter its Phase 3 of reopening in two weeks’ time on 28 December, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Monday (14 December), as the number of COVID-19 cases continued to fall in the country.
Lee made the announcement in a 15-minute national broadcast just before a media conference to be chaired by the ministerial task force on COVID-19.
One “significant change” is to allow groups of up to eight to gather, up from the current maximum of five, he added.
“So eight people can dine out together, or visit someone’s home. This will make it easier to hold family get-togethers during the festive period,” Lee said.
But Lee also cautioned that the battle against the novel coronavirus is “far from won”, even as Singapore embarks on Phase 3.
“The COVID-19 virus has not been eradicated. There is a long way to go,” he added.
“Progressing from Phase 2 to Phase 3 is a calibrated, careful move. We are easing the restrictions in a controlled way, so that we can keep the COVID-19 situation stable and take more steps forward later.”
Earlier in his speech, Lee also noted that the number of COVID-19 cases had fallen from more than 1,000 cases in March and April to zero cases of local transmission currently on most days.
Further reopening of activities in Phase 3
The Ministry of Health (MOH) released more details of easing measures for Phase 3 in a press release on Monday.
For instance, the capacity limits for malls and large standalone stores will be increased from 10 square metres per person to eight square metres per person. Attractions may also apply now to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to increase their operating capacity from 50 per cent to up to 65 per cent.
All religious organisations will be allowed to increase their capacity for congregational and other worship services to up to 250 persons in zones of up to 50 each. Live performance “elements” will also be allowed in places of worship with the necessary safe management measures in place.
For marriage solemnisations held in the home, the hosting household will be able to invite up to eight visitors – excluding members of the hosting household, the solemniser, and vendors – even if this exceeds the existing cap of 10 persons.
Funerals, funerary-related activities, and marriage solemnisations held indoors will also be allowed to have live instrumental music, except for wind instruments.
Limits on gatherings at live performances for arts and culture in indoor venues will also be increased to up to 250 persons with multiple zones at 50 each. For outdoor venues, there will be live performance pilots for up to 250 persons in zones of up to 50 persons each.
“We will continue to conduct pilots in some higher-risk activities and settings such as busking and live performances in outdoor venues, karaoke, nightlife, which will allow us to assess how these activities can take place and scale-up safely,” said the MOH.
Education Minister Lawrence Wong, who is co-lead of the COVID-19 multi-ministry taskforce, said during a press conference on the same day that authorities will be “prepared to allow for further relaxation of the measures” within Phase 3 itself, be it for domestic activities within Singapore or control measures at Singapore’s borders.
“The approach we will take is to conduct pilots in some of these higher-risk activities and settings in order to better understand the risks before we decide to take a further move. At the same time, we will continue to build up our capabilities,” said Wong.
He also reiterated that Singapore is poised to achieve a participation rate of around 70 per cent in its TraceTogether programme by end-2020, which was set as one of the requirements before Singapore can move to Phase 3.
“We are now at a significant milestone, and at a new phase of fighting the virus, but all our hard-won gains against COVID-19 will evaporate if we start to relax now,” said Wong.
With the new measures for Phase 3 coinciding with the festive period, Wong cautioned Singaporeans to socialise “responsibly”, even in slightly larger numbers, and “keep up the good practices” cultivated over the past few months.
COVID-19: Singapore's Phase 3 to begin on 28 Dec, maximum 8 per group – PM Lee
SINGAPORE — Singapore will enter its Phase 3 of reopening in two weeks’ time on 28 December, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Monday (14 December), as the number of COVID-19 cases continued to fall in the country.
Lee made the announcement in a 15-minute national broadcast just before a media conference to be chaired by the ministerial task force on COVID-19.
One “significant change” is to allow groups of up to eight to gather, up from the current maximum of five, he added.
“So eight people can dine out together, or visit someone’s home. This will make it easier to hold family get-togethers during the festive period,” Lee said.
But Lee also cautioned that the battle against the novel coronavirus is “far from won”, even as Singapore embarks on Phase 3.
“The COVID-19 virus has not been eradicated. There is a long way to go,” he added.
“Progressing from Phase 2 to Phase 3 is a calibrated, careful move. We are easing the restrictions in a controlled way, so that we can keep the COVID-19 situation stable and take more steps forward later.”
Earlier in his speech, Lee also noted that the number of COVID-19 cases had fallen from more than 1,000 cases in March and April to zero cases of local transmission currently on most days.
Further reopening of activities in Phase 3
The Ministry of Health (MOH) released more details of easing measures for Phase 3 in a press release on Monday.
For instance, the capacity limits for malls and large standalone stores will be increased from 10 square metres per person to eight square metres per person. Attractions may also apply now to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to increase their operating capacity from 50 per cent to up to 65 per cent.
All religious organisations will be allowed to increase their capacity for congregational and other worship services to up to 250 persons in zones of up to 50 each. Live performance “elements” will also be allowed in places of worship with the necessary safe management measures in place.
For marriage solemnisations held in the home, the hosting household will be able to invite up to eight visitors – excluding members of the hosting household, the solemniser, and vendors – even if this exceeds the existing cap of 10 persons.
Funerals, funerary-related activities, and marriage solemnisations held indoors will also be allowed to have live instrumental music, except for wind instruments.
Limits on gatherings at live performances for arts and culture in indoor venues will also be increased to up to 250 persons with multiple zones at 50 each. For outdoor venues, there will be live performance pilots for up to 250 persons in zones of up to 50 persons each.
“We will continue to conduct pilots in some higher-risk activities and settings such as busking and live performances in outdoor venues, karaoke, nightlife, which will allow us to assess how these activities can take place and scale-up safely,” said the MOH.
Education Minister Lawrence Wong, who is co-lead of the COVID-19 multi-ministry taskforce, said during a press conference on the same day that authorities will be “prepared to allow for further relaxation of the measures” within Phase 3 itself, be it for domestic activities within Singapore or control measures at Singapore’s borders.
“The approach we will take is to conduct pilots in some of these higher-risk activities and settings in order to better understand the risks before we decide to take a further move. At the same time, we will continue to build up our capabilities,” said Wong.
He also reiterated that Singapore is poised to achieve a participation rate of around 70 per cent in its TraceTogether programme by end-2020, which was set as one of the requirements before Singapore can move to Phase 3.
“We are now at a significant milestone, and at a new phase of fighting the virus, but all our hard-won gains against COVID-19 will evaporate if we start to relax now,” said Wong.
With the new measures for Phase 3 coinciding with the festive period, Wong cautioned Singaporeans to socialise “responsibly”, even in slightly larger numbers, and “keep up the good practices” cultivated over the past few months.
from theindependent:
PSP’s Brad Bowyer says it may be time to shelve TraceTogether
Singapore—Progress Singapore Party (PSP) politician Brad Bowyer commented on the recent news that the country cannot yet enter phase 3 of reopening because not enough people are using the TraceTogether token or app for contact tracing.
In October, the multi-ministry task force assigned to tackle matters related to the Covid-19 pandemic listed three conditions that needed to be met in order for the country to enter phase 3, which are adequate testing capabilities, safe management compliance and a take-up rate of Trace Together of 70 per cent.
The Smart Nation and Digital Government Office has said that approximately 2.9 million people have claimed the token or downloaded the app, which puts the number of adapters at 50.8 per cent, falling far short of the 70 per cent target.
Phase 3’s aim is for Singapore “to reach a steady state of permitted economic and social activities until an effective vaccine or treatment is widely available,” said Health Minister Gan Kim Yong in Parliament last month.
Mr Bowyer, however, points out that more people would rather use the token than the app, as adapters have found that it drains the batteries of mobile phones quickly. There are also “questions around it’s functionality and whether it will leave traces” when the pandemic is over, he added.
But the token is yet to be made widely available, the PSP politician pointed out.
“I know that all 3 CC’s designated for my address have told us they have been pushing for stock for a month or more yet still don’t have it… The question is why?,” he wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday, Dec 8.
Since it was announced a few months ago that TraceTogether would be required by this month, Mr Bowyer asked why the provision for the token has “not been adequately made,” given that more people seem to prefer it to the app.
Furthermore, he asked whether using TraceTogether is needful at this point.
“I would also hazard a guess that alongside the privacy and battery draining concerns many may also be asking that given we have had virtually no cases for so long is this even necessary?
After all the system of manual contact tracing we developed after Sars worked fine for us even when Covid was at its peak so why this continued push for Tracing now?”
Perhaps it’s time to shelve it altogether, he added.
“Given when the App was first mooted before the GE and concerns were raised it was promised that it would not be mandatory anyway, the conditions now seem to render it unnecessary and the stocks of the preferred tokens are lacking maybe it is time to shelve it altogether and not waste any more time and resources on this issue and focus on moving to phase 3 without this purely arbitrary requirement as a barrier for moving forward…
That would seem the better choice wouldn’t it… What do you think?” —/TISG
PSP’s Brad Bowyer says it may be time to shelve TraceTogether
Singapore—Progress Singapore Party (PSP) politician Brad Bowyer commented on the recent news that the country cannot yet enter phase 3 of reopening because not enough people are using the TraceTogether token or app for contact tracing.
In October, the multi-ministry task force assigned to tackle matters related to the Covid-19 pandemic listed three conditions that needed to be met in order for the country to enter phase 3, which are adequate testing capabilities, safe management compliance and a take-up rate of Trace Together of 70 per cent.
The Smart Nation and Digital Government Office has said that approximately 2.9 million people have claimed the token or downloaded the app, which puts the number of adapters at 50.8 per cent, falling far short of the 70 per cent target.
Phase 3’s aim is for Singapore “to reach a steady state of permitted economic and social activities until an effective vaccine or treatment is widely available,” said Health Minister Gan Kim Yong in Parliament last month.
Mr Bowyer, however, points out that more people would rather use the token than the app, as adapters have found that it drains the batteries of mobile phones quickly. There are also “questions around it’s functionality and whether it will leave traces” when the pandemic is over, he added.
But the token is yet to be made widely available, the PSP politician pointed out.
“I know that all 3 CC’s designated for my address have told us they have been pushing for stock for a month or more yet still don’t have it… The question is why?,” he wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday, Dec 8.
Since it was announced a few months ago that TraceTogether would be required by this month, Mr Bowyer asked why the provision for the token has “not been adequately made,” given that more people seem to prefer it to the app.
Furthermore, he asked whether using TraceTogether is needful at this point.
“I would also hazard a guess that alongside the privacy and battery draining concerns many may also be asking that given we have had virtually no cases for so long is this even necessary?
After all the system of manual contact tracing we developed after Sars worked fine for us even when Covid was at its peak so why this continued push for Tracing now?”
Perhaps it’s time to shelve it altogether, he added.
“Given when the App was first mooted before the GE and concerns were raised it was promised that it would not be mandatory anyway, the conditions now seem to render it unnecessary and the stocks of the preferred tokens are lacking maybe it is time to shelve it altogether and not waste any more time and resources on this issue and focus on moving to phase 3 without this purely arbitrary requirement as a barrier for moving forward…
That would seem the better choice wouldn’t it… What do you think?” —/TISG
FAQ: Your guide to Phase 3 of the reopening of Singapore
SINGAPORE — Six months after Singapore began Phase 2 of reopening after its two-month COVID-19 circuit breaker period on 19 June, it will move into Phase 3 on 28 December as announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
As a handy guide to this third reopening phase, here is a list of frequently-asked questions answered (this FAQ will be updated with more information from various agencies):
GENERAL
Question: Do I have to wear a face mask when I’m outside?
Answer: Yes, you must continue to wear a face mask whenever you are outside of your residence. There are some specific instances when you can take off your mask, such as when you are driving inside a vehicle, and when you are engaged in strenuous exercise outdoors (jogging, cycling, brisk walking).
When you are taking public transport, you should also refrain from talking to one another or on your mobile phones, and to maintain good personal hygiene.
SINGAPORE — Six months after Singapore began Phase 2 of reopening after its two-month COVID-19 circuit breaker period on 19 June, it will move into Phase 3 on 28 December as announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
As a handy guide to this third reopening phase, here is a list of frequently-asked questions answered (this FAQ will be updated with more information from various agencies):
GENERAL
Question: Do I have to wear a face mask when I’m outside?
Answer: Yes, you must continue to wear a face mask whenever you are outside of your residence. There are some specific instances when you can take off your mask, such as when you are driving inside a vehicle, and when you are engaged in strenuous exercise outdoors (jogging, cycling, brisk walking).
When you are taking public transport, you should also refrain from talking to one another or on your mobile phones, and to maintain good personal hygiene.
FAQ: Your guide to Phase 3 of the reopening of Singapore
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Q: How many family members or friends can join me in social gatherings, such as meals at hawker centres/restaurants?
A: Social gatherings will be allowed to have up to eight persons in Phase 3, an increase from five persons in Phase 2.
Some rules will still remain while dining in Phase 3. Each person should still maintain safe distancing of at least one metre at all times, and if this is not possible, the one-metre rule can be enforced between groups.
Sales and consumption of liquor will end at 10.30pm. Also, live music as well as television/video screenings are not allowed at eateries or pubs at this stage.
Q: Can I invite more than five people to my household in Phase 3?
A: Yes, you can allow up to eight visitors to your household at any point in time.
Q: I wish to attend religious services at my place of worship. Is there an attendance limit?
A: Yes, for Phase 3, the capacity of congregational and other worship services is up to 250 persons, in zones of up to 50 persons each. Furthermore, congregational, other worship services as well as religious rites/prayers conducted at places of worship may involve live performance elements, with the necessary safe management measures in place.
Q: I wish to attend a marriage solemnisation event at a household. What is the limit on guest attendance?
A: Currently for marriage solemnisations held in the home, 10 persons (including members of the household, but excluding solemniser and vendors) are allowed. In Phase 3, up to an additional eight visitors can be invited.
In addition, live instrumental music (except for wind instruments) will be allowed at marriage solemnisations, funerals and funerary-related activities, with necessary safe management measures in place.
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Q: How many family members or friends can join me in social gatherings, such as meals at hawker centres/restaurants?
A: Social gatherings will be allowed to have up to eight persons in Phase 3, an increase from five persons in Phase 2.
Some rules will still remain while dining in Phase 3. Each person should still maintain safe distancing of at least one metre at all times, and if this is not possible, the one-metre rule can be enforced between groups.
Sales and consumption of liquor will end at 10.30pm. Also, live music as well as television/video screenings are not allowed at eateries or pubs at this stage.
Q: Can I invite more than five people to my household in Phase 3?
A: Yes, you can allow up to eight visitors to your household at any point in time.
Q: I wish to attend religious services at my place of worship. Is there an attendance limit?
A: Yes, for Phase 3, the capacity of congregational and other worship services is up to 250 persons, in zones of up to 50 persons each. Furthermore, congregational, other worship services as well as religious rites/prayers conducted at places of worship may involve live performance elements, with the necessary safe management measures in place.
Q: I wish to attend a marriage solemnisation event at a household. What is the limit on guest attendance?
A: Currently for marriage solemnisations held in the home, 10 persons (including members of the household, but excluding solemniser and vendors) are allowed. In Phase 3, up to an additional eight visitors can be invited.
In addition, live instrumental music (except for wind instruments) will be allowed at marriage solemnisations, funerals and funerary-related activities, with necessary safe management measures in place.
FAQ: Your guide to Phase 3 of the reopening of Singapore
Q: Will I be able to attend live arts and culture performances in Phase 3?
A: Yes, you can attend indoor and outdoor live performances. All such events at indoor venues will be capped at 250 people in attendance, in zones of up to 50 people each while those at outdoor venues will have the same requirement under a pilot scheme.
Q: Will I be able to go to nightclubs or karaoke outlets?
A: Generally, no. Pilot schemes are being carried out in high-risk activities and settings – such as busking, live performances in outdoor venues, nightclubs and karaoke outlets – to assess how they can take place and scale up safely.
For instance, three selected bars have reopened and can operate for two months from 8 December under small-scale pilot schemes for the nightlife industry: Bar Kiharu at Orchard Plaza, Bell Bar at Cuppage Plaza and Skinny’s Lounge at Boat Quay.
Q: Will I be able to attend live arts and culture performances in Phase 3?
A: Yes, you can attend indoor and outdoor live performances. All such events at indoor venues will be capped at 250 people in attendance, in zones of up to 50 people each while those at outdoor venues will have the same requirement under a pilot scheme.
Q: Will I be able to go to nightclubs or karaoke outlets?
A: Generally, no. Pilot schemes are being carried out in high-risk activities and settings – such as busking, live performances in outdoor venues, nightclubs and karaoke outlets – to assess how they can take place and scale up safely.
For instance, three selected bars have reopened and can operate for two months from 8 December under small-scale pilot schemes for the nightlife industry: Bar Kiharu at Orchard Plaza, Bell Bar at Cuppage Plaza and Skinny’s Lounge at Boat Quay.
FAQ: Your guide to Phase 3 of the reopening of Singapore
PUBLIC PLACES
Q: Must I carry my TraceTogether token everywhere I go in Phase 3?
A: Not necessary at the start of Phase 3. TraceTogether-only SafeEntry, whereby you must have the TraceTogether App or token for SafeEntry check-ins, will only be implemented early next year, when everyone has had a chance to collect a token from community clubs/centres.
Until then, you can still do your SafeEntry check-in via SingPass Mobile or TraceTogether app, QR reader apps, or any of your identity cards with barcodes (for example, NRIC, Pioneer or Merdeka Generation cards).
Q: Should I expect bigger crowds at public places or tourist attractions?
A: Yes, the capacity limits of premises will be gradually increased. For malls and large standalone stores, the capacity limit will be loosened, from 10 square metres per person to 8 square metres per person, allowing more patrons to be inside the malls or stores.
Meanwhile, tourist attractions can apply to Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to increase their operating capacity from 50 per cent up to 65 per cent.
PUBLIC PLACES
Q: Must I carry my TraceTogether token everywhere I go in Phase 3?
A: Not necessary at the start of Phase 3. TraceTogether-only SafeEntry, whereby you must have the TraceTogether App or token for SafeEntry check-ins, will only be implemented early next year, when everyone has had a chance to collect a token from community clubs/centres.
Until then, you can still do your SafeEntry check-in via SingPass Mobile or TraceTogether app, QR reader apps, or any of your identity cards with barcodes (for example, NRIC, Pioneer or Merdeka Generation cards).
Q: Should I expect bigger crowds at public places or tourist attractions?
A: Yes, the capacity limits of premises will be gradually increased. For malls and large standalone stores, the capacity limit will be loosened, from 10 square metres per person to 8 square metres per person, allowing more patrons to be inside the malls or stores.
Meanwhile, tourist attractions can apply to Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to increase their operating capacity from 50 per cent up to 65 per cent.
from straitstimes.com:
TraceTogether programme hits 70% participation among Singapore residents
SINGAPORE - About 70 per cent of Singapore residents are now participating in the national contact tracing programme TraceTogether (TT), fulfilling a target the Government had earlier set in order for the country to enter phase three of its reopening.
But the authorities will not implement TraceTogether-only SafeEntry at venues such as cinemas and malls until everyone has had the chance to collect the TT token or download the app, Minister-in-Charge of the Smart Nation Initiative Vivian Balakrishnan said on Wednesday (Dec 23).
Dr Balakrishnan, who is also Foreign Minister, said that 70 per cent of residents here are either users of the TT app or the TT token as at Monday.
"We've gone past the 70 per cent participation rate in TraceTogether. There's been more than two million people who have downloaded the app and have registered and are using it," he told reporters on the sidelines of a TT token distribution exercise in Kampong Kembangan Community Club in Eunos.
"In addition, since Sept 14 when we started the distribution of the TraceTogether tokens, we have distributed so far about 1.75 million tokens. So that's a significant number and I'm very grateful for the trust and confidence of Singaporeans."
On Oct 20, Education Minister Lawrence Wong, who co-chairs the ministerial task force leading Singapore's response to Covid-19, said that the 70 per cent target was among the requirements before Singapore could go to the third phase of reopening its economy.
The other conditions are having in place safe management compliance and sufficient testing capabilities.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on Dec 14 that Singapore would enter this long-awaited phase next Monday (Dec 28).
In this new phase, social gatherings of up to eight people will be allowed in public, up from five currently, and households can receive up to eight visitors. Capacity limits in public places like malls, attractions and places of worship will also be eased.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan demonstrating using the TraceTogether token with a SafeEntry Gateway at Kampong Kembangan Community Club.
SafeEntry, the nation's digital check-in system, is currently mandated at all these places, but when the new rule kicks in, people must instead use the TT app or token. The app includes a function for scanning SafeEntry QR codes, while the tokens sport a QR code with a similar function.
The TT tokens have been distributed to the public since September in CCs, and since late October, they have been distributed one constituency at a time to prevent long queues from forming.
The demand for the tokens has exceeded authorities’ expectations, with over half the population having registered and collected tokens at some community clubs, noted Dr Balakrishnan.
TraceTogether programme hits 70% participation among Singapore residents
SINGAPORE - About 70 per cent of Singapore residents are now participating in the national contact tracing programme TraceTogether (TT), fulfilling a target the Government had earlier set in order for the country to enter phase three of its reopening.
But the authorities will not implement TraceTogether-only SafeEntry at venues such as cinemas and malls until everyone has had the chance to collect the TT token or download the app, Minister-in-Charge of the Smart Nation Initiative Vivian Balakrishnan said on Wednesday (Dec 23).
Dr Balakrishnan, who is also Foreign Minister, said that 70 per cent of residents here are either users of the TT app or the TT token as at Monday.
"We've gone past the 70 per cent participation rate in TraceTogether. There's been more than two million people who have downloaded the app and have registered and are using it," he told reporters on the sidelines of a TT token distribution exercise in Kampong Kembangan Community Club in Eunos.
"In addition, since Sept 14 when we started the distribution of the TraceTogether tokens, we have distributed so far about 1.75 million tokens. So that's a significant number and I'm very grateful for the trust and confidence of Singaporeans."
On Oct 20, Education Minister Lawrence Wong, who co-chairs the ministerial task force leading Singapore's response to Covid-19, said that the 70 per cent target was among the requirements before Singapore could go to the third phase of reopening its economy.
The other conditions are having in place safe management compliance and sufficient testing capabilities.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on Dec 14 that Singapore would enter this long-awaited phase next Monday (Dec 28).
In this new phase, social gatherings of up to eight people will be allowed in public, up from five currently, and households can receive up to eight visitors. Capacity limits in public places like malls, attractions and places of worship will also be eased.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan demonstrating using the TraceTogether token with a SafeEntry Gateway at Kampong Kembangan Community Club.
SafeEntry, the nation's digital check-in system, is currently mandated at all these places, but when the new rule kicks in, people must instead use the TT app or token. The app includes a function for scanning SafeEntry QR codes, while the tokens sport a QR code with a similar function.
The TT tokens have been distributed to the public since September in CCs, and since late October, they have been distributed one constituency at a time to prevent long queues from forming.
The demand for the tokens has exceeded authorities’ expectations, with over half the population having registered and collected tokens at some community clubs, noted Dr Balakrishnan.
from straitstimes.com:
Schools in Singapore to distribute TraceTogether tokens to students
SINGAPORE - Schools will be distributing the TraceTogether (TT) tokens to students so that they will be able to participate in the national contact tracing programme, said Minister-in-Charge of the Smart Nation Initiative Vivian Balakrishnan.
This move will complement efforts to distribute the tokens in community clubs (CCs) islandwide, and Dr Balakrishnan added that the Government intends to manufacture five million tokens by the end of February.
"We will also be distributing tokens through the schools... Those of you with children or students, don't worry. You don't need to rush down to the community clubs. You can also collect a token in school in due time," he said on Wednesday (Dec 23).
He was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a TT token distribution exercise at Kampong Kembangan CC in Eunos.
In a release on Wednesday, the Smart Nation and Digital Government Group (SNDGG) said that more details on this will be shared later, and that students do not need to have their tokens when school reopens next year.
The tokens have been distributed to the public since September in CCs. Since late October, they have been distributed one constituency at a time to prevent long queues from forming.
On Wednesday, Dr Balakrishnan said that the Government has increased its order for the TT tokens and that by the end of February, it would have made up to five million tokens.
The TT app and token work by exchanging short-distance Bluetooth signals with other TT apps or tokens nearby. This proximity data, which is encrypted and stored for 25 days before being automatically deleted, allows quick contact tracing.
Dr Balakrishnan also addressed how there are currently different designs of TT tokens that are being distributed, and said that aside from how they look, they all work the same.
There are currently four different designs of the token that are currently being distributed, he said, adding that the design for the tokens has been changing based on the improvements that have been made to them.
But Dr Balakrishnan stressed that all the four tokens work in the same way, and it does not matter which one people use as they all work well.
"We wanted these tokens to be able to last for six to nine months, and that's why you realise that, especially in the initial designs, we catered for quite a lot of space for battery life," he said.
"But along the way we've also continued to reiterate the design, and that's why you see that today there are four different designs, but they are all fully functional and all have the same facility."
Schools in Singapore to distribute TraceTogether tokens to students
SINGAPORE - Schools will be distributing the TraceTogether (TT) tokens to students so that they will be able to participate in the national contact tracing programme, said Minister-in-Charge of the Smart Nation Initiative Vivian Balakrishnan.
This move will complement efforts to distribute the tokens in community clubs (CCs) islandwide, and Dr Balakrishnan added that the Government intends to manufacture five million tokens by the end of February.
"We will also be distributing tokens through the schools... Those of you with children or students, don't worry. You don't need to rush down to the community clubs. You can also collect a token in school in due time," he said on Wednesday (Dec 23).
He was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a TT token distribution exercise at Kampong Kembangan CC in Eunos.
In a release on Wednesday, the Smart Nation and Digital Government Group (SNDGG) said that more details on this will be shared later, and that students do not need to have their tokens when school reopens next year.
The tokens have been distributed to the public since September in CCs. Since late October, they have been distributed one constituency at a time to prevent long queues from forming.
On Wednesday, Dr Balakrishnan said that the Government has increased its order for the TT tokens and that by the end of February, it would have made up to five million tokens.
The TT app and token work by exchanging short-distance Bluetooth signals with other TT apps or tokens nearby. This proximity data, which is encrypted and stored for 25 days before being automatically deleted, allows quick contact tracing.
Dr Balakrishnan also addressed how there are currently different designs of TT tokens that are being distributed, and said that aside from how they look, they all work the same.
There are currently four different designs of the token that are currently being distributed, he said, adding that the design for the tokens has been changing based on the improvements that have been made to them.
But Dr Balakrishnan stressed that all the four tokens work in the same way, and it does not matter which one people use as they all work well.
"We wanted these tokens to be able to last for six to nine months, and that's why you realise that, especially in the initial designs, we catered for quite a lot of space for battery life," he said.
"But along the way we've also continued to reiterate the design, and that's why you see that today there are four different designs, but they are all fully functional and all have the same facility."
from straitstimes.com:
Healthcare workers to receive Covid-19 vaccine from Dec 30, S’pore residents aged 70 and older from Feb ’21: MOH
SINGAPORE - Singapore’s Covid-19 vaccination exercise will begin on Dec 30 with healthcare workers at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, followed by the elderly aged 70 and older next February.
Vaccinations will roll out to more healthcare institutions in the coming weeks, with public healthcare institutions and private hospitals to arrange for their staff to be vaccinated at their respective premises.
This is in line with recommendations by an expert committee that front-line and healthcare workers and those most vulnerable to severe complications if they contract Covid-19 should be vaccinated first, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Sunday (Dec 27).
The elderly will be vaccinated from February next year, followed by other Singaporeans and long-term residents who are medically eligible, said the MOH.
This follows the Government's full acceptance of a 14-member expert committee's recommendations that were submitted last Thursday.
"Vaccination is not a silver bullet that can end the pandemic immediately, but it is a key enabler to getting us back to a safer state of affairs," the ministry said.
The MOH said vaccination will complement other "key enablers", such as safe management measures, testing and contact tracing, to mitigate any spread and to keep community transmission low.
In its statement, the committee noted that Covid-19 patients aged 70 and older have worse health outcomes than those aged 60 to 69, and so it is recommended to start vaccination for the older group first.
Protecting older people minimises Covid-19-related mortality and morbidity, as well as the potential strain on the healthcare system.
The committee has also assessed that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which arrived in Singapore earlier this month, is suitable for use in people aged 16 and older for the prevention of Covid-19, it said, although taking the vaccine is still not recommended for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals until more information is available.
This was after it conducted an independent review of the clinical data on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, which has been approved by the Health Sciences Authority.
The committee said the vaccine has demonstrated a high efficacy of 95 per cent, and its safety profile is consistent with the high standards set for other registered vaccines used in immunisation against other diseases.
The recommendations follow Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's announcement on Dec 14 that Covid-19 vaccines will be free for all Singaporeans and long-term residents who are currently here, with plans to cover everyone who wants one by the end of next year.
Other recommendations by the expert committee include:
- Everyone living in Singapore who is medically eligible for vaccination should be vaccinated when vaccines become more widely available, although it should remain voluntary.
Achieving as high a level of population coverage for Covid-19 vaccination as possible can markedly reduce the overall proportion of the population that is susceptible to the disease and the likelihood of uncontrolled chains of transmission, said the committee.
Healthcare workers to receive Covid-19 vaccine from Dec 30, S’pore residents aged 70 and older from Feb ’21: MOH
SINGAPORE - Singapore’s Covid-19 vaccination exercise will begin on Dec 30 with healthcare workers at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, followed by the elderly aged 70 and older next February.
Vaccinations will roll out to more healthcare institutions in the coming weeks, with public healthcare institutions and private hospitals to arrange for their staff to be vaccinated at their respective premises.
This is in line with recommendations by an expert committee that front-line and healthcare workers and those most vulnerable to severe complications if they contract Covid-19 should be vaccinated first, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Sunday (Dec 27).
The elderly will be vaccinated from February next year, followed by other Singaporeans and long-term residents who are medically eligible, said the MOH.
This follows the Government's full acceptance of a 14-member expert committee's recommendations that were submitted last Thursday.
"Vaccination is not a silver bullet that can end the pandemic immediately, but it is a key enabler to getting us back to a safer state of affairs," the ministry said.
The MOH said vaccination will complement other "key enablers", such as safe management measures, testing and contact tracing, to mitigate any spread and to keep community transmission low.
In its statement, the committee noted that Covid-19 patients aged 70 and older have worse health outcomes than those aged 60 to 69, and so it is recommended to start vaccination for the older group first.
Protecting older people minimises Covid-19-related mortality and morbidity, as well as the potential strain on the healthcare system.
The committee has also assessed that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which arrived in Singapore earlier this month, is suitable for use in people aged 16 and older for the prevention of Covid-19, it said, although taking the vaccine is still not recommended for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals until more information is available.
This was after it conducted an independent review of the clinical data on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, which has been approved by the Health Sciences Authority.
The committee said the vaccine has demonstrated a high efficacy of 95 per cent, and its safety profile is consistent with the high standards set for other registered vaccines used in immunisation against other diseases.
The recommendations follow Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's announcement on Dec 14 that Covid-19 vaccines will be free for all Singaporeans and long-term residents who are currently here, with plans to cover everyone who wants one by the end of next year.
Other recommendations by the expert committee include:
- Everyone living in Singapore who is medically eligible for vaccination should be vaccinated when vaccines become more widely available, although it should remain voluntary.
Achieving as high a level of population coverage for Covid-19 vaccination as possible can markedly reduce the overall proportion of the population that is susceptible to the disease and the likelihood of uncontrolled chains of transmission, said the committee.
From yahoo news:
NCID healthcare staff become first in Singapore to receive COVID-19 vaccine
SINGAPORE — More than 30 staff at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID) received the COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday (30 December), becoming the first group to do so as the vaccination exercise begins in Singapore.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a media release that these staff members come from across clinical, nursing, allied health, ancillary and administration departments. They reported to the NCID’s Day Treatment Centre, which was designated for COVID-19 vaccination of NCID staff.
The first healthcare worker to be vaccinated was Sarah Lim, 46, a senior staff nurse at NCID.
Before the COVID-19 outbreak, she performed pre-screening, carried out medical procedures such as blood-taking, and also coordinated clinic operations at the Special Precaution Area at NCID. With the COVID-19 outbreak, Lim continues to be stationed at the Special Precaution Area, and carries out screening for suspect COVID-19 cases.
“I feel fine,” she said after taking her vaccination. “It’s just like an ant bite, so I think it should be tolerable to everyone.
“I feel very grateful to get the vaccine, and I hope to encourage everyone to get vaccinated to protect against COVID-19.
“Being a nurse, I feel I have responsibility to take the vaccination first, so that I can protect others.”
Another NCID staff who was vaccinated was senior staff nurse Mohamed Firdaus Mohamed Salleh, 38. He is an Intensive Care Unit nurse looking after infectious diseases patients, and currently looks after COVID-19 patients.
Dr Kalisvar Marimuthu, a 43-year-old senior consultant who manages suspect and confirmed COVID-19 cases, was also one of the NCID staff who was vaccinated today. He was involved in managing infection control in the Community Care Facilities.
Vaccine info sheet, screening form for staff
MOH said in the media release that staff arriving for vaccination will receive a vaccine information sheet and vaccine screening form, and will be asked to fill in their personal particulars, medical information, and declaration and consent.
Before administering the vaccine, the vaccinator will ask the staff members a series of questions related to vaccine eligibility. If they are able to take the COVID-19 vaccine, the vaccinator will proceed to prepare the vaccine, and administer the vaccine into the arm.
After receiving the vaccine, staff will receive a vaccination card and will be observed for 30 minutes on site to ensure that they have tolerated the vaccine well.
These staff will return for the second dose of the vaccine on 20 January, 21 days after the first injection.
The remaining NCID staff will be progressively vaccinated with the National Healthcare Group Management and Staff, starting from January.
MOH had said that it will also start vaccinations for those aged 70 and above from February.
NCID healthcare staff become first in Singapore to receive COVID-19 vaccine
SINGAPORE — More than 30 staff at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID) received the COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday (30 December), becoming the first group to do so as the vaccination exercise begins in Singapore.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a media release that these staff members come from across clinical, nursing, allied health, ancillary and administration departments. They reported to the NCID’s Day Treatment Centre, which was designated for COVID-19 vaccination of NCID staff.
The first healthcare worker to be vaccinated was Sarah Lim, 46, a senior staff nurse at NCID.
Before the COVID-19 outbreak, she performed pre-screening, carried out medical procedures such as blood-taking, and also coordinated clinic operations at the Special Precaution Area at NCID. With the COVID-19 outbreak, Lim continues to be stationed at the Special Precaution Area, and carries out screening for suspect COVID-19 cases.
“I feel fine,” she said after taking her vaccination. “It’s just like an ant bite, so I think it should be tolerable to everyone.
“I feel very grateful to get the vaccine, and I hope to encourage everyone to get vaccinated to protect against COVID-19.
“Being a nurse, I feel I have responsibility to take the vaccination first, so that I can protect others.”
Another NCID staff who was vaccinated was senior staff nurse Mohamed Firdaus Mohamed Salleh, 38. He is an Intensive Care Unit nurse looking after infectious diseases patients, and currently looks after COVID-19 patients.
Dr Kalisvar Marimuthu, a 43-year-old senior consultant who manages suspect and confirmed COVID-19 cases, was also one of the NCID staff who was vaccinated today. He was involved in managing infection control in the Community Care Facilities.
Vaccine info sheet, screening form for staff
MOH said in the media release that staff arriving for vaccination will receive a vaccine information sheet and vaccine screening form, and will be asked to fill in their personal particulars, medical information, and declaration and consent.
Before administering the vaccine, the vaccinator will ask the staff members a series of questions related to vaccine eligibility. If they are able to take the COVID-19 vaccine, the vaccinator will proceed to prepare the vaccine, and administer the vaccine into the arm.
After receiving the vaccine, staff will receive a vaccination card and will be observed for 30 minutes on site to ensure that they have tolerated the vaccine well.
These staff will return for the second dose of the vaccine on 20 January, 21 days after the first injection.
The remaining NCID staff will be progressively vaccinated with the National Healthcare Group Management and Staff, starting from January.
MOH had said that it will also start vaccinations for those aged 70 and above from February.
If Mankind’s ultimate extinction is inevitable one . Can run but cannot hide .
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