Hold Up, Carousell! Singapore’s Vaccine Slots Get Sold Out Fast
Quick news from the Singapora: Tapped into a hot market today, people are scrambling to snap up COVID‑19 vaccine appointments as the government’s stash of 200,000 Sinovac doses dwindles.
What Went Down
- On August 12th, a batch of slots rolled onto Carousell, Singapore’s go-to consumer marketplace.
- By August 18th, bidders were raising their hands – and their wallets – for the spots.
- Prices were flying between $50 and $80 per slot, with buyers eyeing that last‑minute availability.
Why the Sprint?
With the vaccine supply tightening, folks are betting on that last shot of protection. If you can’t secure a slot in the official windows, Carousell turns into a gold rush for those desperate to get vaccinated.
Takeaway
- Check the official channels first; they’re the safest way to get the jab without shelling out extra cash.
- Remember: If a marketplace has something for you, it’s probably not for free (and probably not for anyone else who simply wants it).
- Stay updated – Singapore’s vaccine situation can change by the day!
So, next time you’re scrolling through Carousell, keep an eye out for those vaccine slots. Grab ’em when you can, but always prefer the official route wherever possible.
<img alt="" data-caption="A check by The Straits Times showed bidders dangling between $50 and $80 to buy the slots, and a seller asking for $60.
PHOTO: Carousell” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”d6c82b03-c93b-4b2e-9362-1a1f41c75694″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20210818_SinoVacListingDetails_Carousell.jpg”/>
Not Sure if Anyone’s Bought a Sinovac Yet
We’re on the edge of our seats. ST has reached out to the Ministry of Health and the Health Sciences Authority to find out who’s actually moving the Sinovac money around… so far, the ledger looks downright blank.
Owner’s Club: The Special Access Route
Good news: the MOH has given 31 private clinics the green light to sell the vaccine under the Special Access Route. Want in? Just dial the practice or click on their websites—these places have their own slick online booking system. Show up without an appointment? You’ll be kindly turned away.
Stocks Running Low – But Not Lost
On Aug 10, the MOH announced that Sinovac stocks were in the “depleting” zone but they’re actively working with private providers to order more. The good news: fresh doses are expected in four to six weeks.
- It’s not part of Singapore’s national vaccination program—think of it as the “bon‑bon club” for curious folks.
Because You’re a Concierge or a Patient With Allergies
A seller on Carousell shared a real‑talk story: his loved one can’t receive the mRNA vaccines (Pfizer‑BioNTech, Moderna) due to a medical reason. That’s why they’re looking at Sinovac.
MOH’s statement said the 31 approved clinics had 170,000 doses for 85,000 people. After ring‑fencing for second doses, the stock will run out—but there’s still a pocket of 30,000 shots reserved for:
- Singapore citizens
- Permanent residents
- Long‑term pass holders
- Those who’ve had allergic reactions to the mRNA vaccines
What’s Next?
Brace yourselves: “New stocks of Sinovac’s Covid‑19 vaccine are expected to arrive in Singapore in 4 to 6 weeks.” Thanks to the Straits Times for the latest scoop.