Singapore updates guidelines to include new eligible groups
Singapore is expanding its Covid-19 vaccination program, making doses available to pregnant women, cancer patients, and individuals aged 39 and younger by mid-June.
New eligibility updates
Following a review of global and local clinical data, the expert committee on Covid-19 vaccination has deemed Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines safe for pregnant women. However, they are advised to consult their doctors before proceeding.
Other key updates include:
Breastfeeding women can now receive the vaccine.
Cancer patients undergoing treatment may be vaccinated in hospital settings after assessment by specialists.
Individuals with Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions are now cleared for mRNA vaccines.
The committee is reviewing safety data for people with a history of anaphylaxis.
Walk-in vaccinations for seniors
To increase accessibility, vaccination centres in the community will now allow walk-ins for individuals aged 60 and above, eliminating the need for prior appointments.
Expansion to younger age groups
From June 1, over 400,000 students from schools and higher learning institutions will be invited for vaccination. If vaccine supplies remain steady, adults under 40 will be able to register and book appointments by mid-June.
Current vaccination progress
As of May 30, Singapore has administered over four million vaccine doses. More than 2.3 million people have received at least one dose, while 1.7 million are fully vaccinated.
Minister Ong Ye Kung emphasized the protective effect of vaccines, noting that 8% of unvaccinated individuals developed severe illness, compared to just over 1% of vaccinated individuals in recent cases.
