Singapore’s COVID‑19: Let’s Seriously Get It Right!
The Big Warning
Dr. Shawn Vasoo, the clinical director at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID), stepped up the talk squarely on Monday (April 13). He said that if people keep ignoring the circuit‑breaker rules, the death toll will rise, and Singapore will see more folks fall to the virus. His message? “We’re not in a leisurely era—you’re not supposed to go chasing the sunset on a weekend picnic when you can still wash your hands properly.”
Why the Rules Matter
- We’re told to stay home unless it’s essential to leave.
- Diners can’t enjoy a table at any restaurant.
- When you do slip outside, keep a safe 1‑meter distance whenever you’re moving about or in a line.
What’s Going Wrong
Despite the strict guidelines, many Singaporeans are feeling bold enough to:
- exercise in crowded groups
- queue like there’s no queueing etiquette left
- gather outside their households
- crowd parks and park connectors
By Sunday noon, the numbers were already looking shaky: over 2,500 Covid‑19 cases and eight deaths.
The Expert Take
Leo Yee Sin, NCID’s executive director, echoed Dr. Vasoo’s admonishment. She’s all about making a sacrifice—staying home, avoiding visits, and protecting older family members. “Freedom may take a hit, but the stakes are high,” she said.
She also explained why the disease feels so slippery:
- It often appears mild and harmless at the beginning, while the virus is lighting up its secretion like a disco party.
- People can spread it before they notice any signs.
- Because it’s a brand‑new pathogen, we’re all on the same playing field—there’s no “immune champion” yet.
“If we’re careless, we’re a moving threat, especially when we carry the virus into our families and friends,” Prof. Leo added.
How You Can Help
Dr. Vasoo asked everyone to practice social and moral responsibility right now:
- stay home whenever possible,
- wear a mask when leaving for essential jobs,
- learn how to do it right—clean and dry the mask when it gets wet (because a soggy mask works like a sieve), and put it off carefully without smudging your hands.
“This isn’t the time for a get‑together or a carefree wander, so keep clear, keep safe, and keep it real,” he urged.
That’s the story straight from the NCID. If you’re reading this, remember: a small act of caution can mean a whole lot of protection for you and everyone around you. Let’s keep it tight—together!
