Regular Covid-19 tests required for unvaccinated staff in sectors like malls and food delivery

[SINGAPORE]

MORE groups of unvaccinated people who interact more frequently with the public will be tested twice a week using Antigen Rapid Tests from Oct 1.

These individuals include those who work in malls and supermarkets, taxi and private-hire car drivers, delivery personnel, driving instructors and public transport frontline staff, said the Health Ministry (MOH) on Friday.

Workers already under this "vaccinate or regular test" regime that will take effect from Oct 1 include healthcare workers as well as those who work in F&B establishments, gyms and fitness studios, and personal-care services.

MOH also announced that from Aug 18, it will extend the national vaccination programme to groups of short-term pass holders who are in Singapore for long periods of time. Those eligible will be progressively notified by the ministry from Aug 18, and more details will be shared shortly.

The vaccine will be offered to these individuals because a good majority of Singapore citizens, Permanent Residents and long-term pass holders have been vaccinated, MOH said.

To make it easier for people - especially seniors - to get their jabs, the number of Public Health Preparedness Clinics offering Covid-19 vaccinations will be increased to 60 by the end of this month, up from 44 now.

Singapore will also help neighbouring countries in their vaccination efforts through donation and swapping of vaccines, as the country has made good progress in its vaccination programme and set aside sufficient vaccine supplies, said MOH. "This will help to boost the overall resiliency of our region against Covid-19," it added.

THE STRAITS TIMES