Singapore with Surplus Vaccines "Vaccination Available Without Appointment"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Singapore, which has one of the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the world, is stepping up efforts to increase its vaccination rate.

According to local media such as The Straits Times and CNA on the 10th, residents in Singapore can receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting today by visiting any of the 37 vaccination centers across the city without a prior appointment.

The Ministry of Health announced the night before that anyone aged 12 and above who has not yet received their first vaccine dose can visit any of the 26 vaccination centers to receive the Pfizer vaccine without an appointment.

Earlier, from the 2nd of this month, anyone aged 18 and above could receive the Moderna vaccine at 11 community vaccination centers without an appointment.

Since mid-last month, seniors aged 60 and above in Singapore have been able to receive vaccines at vaccination centers or general hospitals without making a reservation.

According to the national vaccination program, as of yesterday, 70% of Singapore’s total population of 5.7 million have completed their COVID-19 vaccination.

Additionally, 79% of the entire population has received at least one dose of the vaccine.

Allowing vaccinations without appointments is a measure to further increase the vaccination rate.

Previously, only those who received messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines such as Pfizer and Moderna were officially recognized as vaccinated, but recently, in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizing Chinese vaccines Sinovac and Sinopharm, as well as AstraZeneca, those vaccinated with these are now also included.

The Ministry of Health stated, "Vaccination remains a crucial ally in the fight against COVID-19," and strongly recommends that all eligible individuals get vaccinated.

Meanwhile, as Singapore’s COVID-19 vaccination completion rate surpassed 70%, it is easing quarantine measures starting today.

Accordingly, vaccinated citizens can gather in groups of up to five for dining out.

Previously, social gatherings were limited to two people.

Foreign workers and their families who have visited high-risk COVID-19 countries will also be allowed entry if they have completed vaccination.

If the vaccination rate reaches 80% next month, economic and social activities as well as travel will be permitted.

Thanks to quickly securing COVID-19 vaccines and actively promoting vaccination, Singapore is recording one of the highest vaccination rates worldwide.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.