Singapore Puts the 18‑49 Group on the Booster Fast‑Track
From Monday, November 7, folks aged 18 to 49 will get a friendly text from the Ministry of Health (MOH) to book their bivalent COVID‑19 booster. Those in their 40s will get the message first, complete with a personal booking link to one of the combined testing and vaccination centers. The younger slice of the population gets their links a bit later, so patience is key.
Why the New Wave Matters
It turns out the Omicron XBB sub‑variant is still singing the anthem of infection, and MOH says the current wave is finally winding down. Still, the ministry warns that the virus is like a gossip blogger—always coming up with new sub‑versions, especially now that travel is back in force. A nasty variant could pop up in Singapore without any warning, so the advice is simple:
- Get the booster early.
- Keep testing yourself.
- Respect personal and social hygiene.
What’s Inside the Bivalent Shot?
Moderna’s Spikevax bivalent jab is a two‑headed sword, fighting both the original SARS‑CoV‑2 strain and the ever-popular Omicron. If you’ve had your last shot over five months ago, it’s time for a fourth or even fifth dose, depending on your vaccination history.
Quick Recap:
- mRNA or Nuvaxovid recipients: minimum 3 doses; 4 if you need a booster.
- Sinovac‑CoronaVac users: minimum 4 doses.
Keeping the Spread at Bay
MOH’s “three lines of defence” revolve around staying on schedule with vaccines, routine self‑testing, and good habits—hand‑washing, mask‑wearing, you know, the usual COVID etiquette.
If you feel coughy or have a runny nose 28 days after your last infection, we advise you to test yourself—it could be a new strain or a common cold. And if you test negative but still feel under the weather, dial back on social interaction because you might just be fighting some other respiratory havoc.
Free Test Kits to Keep the Community Safe
Starting November 21, each household will receive 12 antigen rapid test (ART) kits—the league’s fourth distribution round. Because it’s the peak holiday season, folks might see these kits arrive a bit later than usual. MOH appreciates the patience.
Can Kids Get Boosted Too?
Yes! Pfizer‑BioNTech’s bivalent vaccine is now approved for ages 12 and up. Pharma supplies should start rolling in by year‑end and details will drop soon.
What’s the Current Status?
As of Wednesday, over 65,000 people—healthcare workers and those aged 50+—have already been slotted for the bivalent dose. Older folks and health professionals can still walk in for the booster, and anyone on three Sinovac‑CoronaVac doses is urged to grab the fourth.
Since October 7, anyone 18+ can get the fourth dose without needing to prove medical ineligibility. Low‑income households, students, and those with extra ART kit needs can also request more from social service centers or family service offices.
Bottom Line
As the virus keeps evolving like a plot twist, the best defense is staying on the booster schedule. MOH urges those eligible to take the bivalent dose: keep your shield strong and stay resilient.
Source: The Straits Times
