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Singapore hits vaccination milestone
The government had hoped to have two-thirds of the population fully vaccinated by National Day on August 9.
That goal has been met, with 70% of the population now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Some coronavirus curbs in the city-state have been eased today, following a partial lockdown that was triggered by COVID-19 clusters linked to karaoke lounges and a fishery port.
The size of public gatherings has been increased from two to five, and restrictions on entry for foreign workers have been eased.
There are now different rules for those who are vaccinated and those who are not, when it comes to eating out.
Only people who are fully vaccinated, or unvaccinated people with a negative COVID-19 test result, will be allowed to dine-in at restaurants and bars.
Dining-in is permitted for groups of up to two at hawker centres and cafes, regardless of vaccination status.
Mass vaccination drives transition to a new-normal
Working from home is currently the default arrangement, but from August 19 up to 50% of employees will be able to return to the workplace.
79 per cent of people have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, with the Lion City on track to have 80% of its population fully vaccinated by early September.
When this target is reached, there will be a further relaxation of measures.
This is likely to include the introduction of quarantine-free travel for vaccinated travellers.
Such a move would mark a big step forward for Singapore, as part of its transition to a new-normal in which the population learn to live with COVID-19.
Vaccination drive continues
The city-state now have one of the best vaccination rates in the world, but authorities are still pushing for more people to get inoculated.
From today, all Singaporeans, permanent residents and long-term pass holders who are not yet vaccinated will not need to make an appointment. They can simply walk up to a clinic.
There is also a real push to vaccinate those aged 70 and above, who were the first group eligible to be vaccinated but have the lowest take up rate.
The Ministry of Health says “vaccination remains a key enabler in our fight against Covid-19″, urging “all who are eligible to be vaccinated”.