Sinovac Booster Buzz: Why Vaccinated Yet Still Tested?
What the Ministry of Health Just Announced
On Wednesday, June 30, the Ministry of Health (MOH) clarified that folks who got the Sinovac Covid‑19 shot still need to undergo pre‑event testing. Even if you’re all dolled up to attend a concert or a wedding, the vaccine you received matters.
Why the Extra Step?
Singapore’s national vaccines—Pfizer‑BioNTech and Moderna—have solid evidence backing their protection against the Delta variant. Sinovac, a China‑made jab, lacks the same level of documentation in our system. The MOH says: “When it’s about public safety, we can’t take chances.”
2024 Clinic News
Last month, the government gave the green light to 24 private healthcare clinics to use the remaining government stock of Sinovac under the Special Access Route (SAR). Suddenly, phones erupted and walk‑in queues formed for those hoping to snag the jab.
- Many residents were eager to get vaccinated.
- But the giver of the vaccine is still unregistered by the Health Sciences Authority.
- That means it sits outside the usual “vaccination programme” umbrella.
Hold Your Mass ‘Cause…
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore issued a quick note on June 22 stating that only Pfizer or Moderna shots are accepted for pre‑event exemptions at certain Masses. After a clarification three days later, they reminded worshippers that Sinovac recipients must still oblige with a test if attending larger gatherings.
They also encouraged those who haven’t been vaccinated—or who have the Sinovac vaccine—to attend smaller Masses (≤ 50 people) where no test is needed. “Let’s keep those Masses intimate,” they said.
What This Means for Doctors and Patients
The MOH told clinicians that when they prescribe a SAR vaccine like Sinovac, they must explain to patients that it doesn’t qualify for the same exemptions as national programme shots. This helps patients weigh the pros and cons before sitting in the exam chair.
Bottom Line
So, if you’re cozy in a Sinovac vaccine, keep your test kit handy. The door for a pre‑event exemption stays firmly shut until you’re in the country’s flagship vaccine family.
