REACH 221 - Spike in TTSH & ICA community cases (SK)
30 Apr 2021 (11am - 7pm)
REACH
[10:14 am, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Dear contributors,
Welcome back! π
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[10:16 am, 30/04/2021] +REACH: π’ Topic π’
16 community cases were among the 35 new COVID-19 infections reported in Singapore as of noon on Thursday (Apr 29). This is the highest number of community infections in Singapore since July 11 last year.
π¬ What are your views on the recent COVID-19 cases in the community? How can we as a community play our part to avoid a resurgence of infections?
There are now eight active COVID-19 clusters, the largest of which is linked to a nurse at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) with nine cases.
The authorities are taking steps contain the spread of the virus and unearth all cases, including enforcing lockdowns in two affected wards, stepping up clinical surveillance of all inpatients who may develop fever and ARI (acute respiratory infection) symptoms, and testing of all patients and staff in other TTSH wards.
"Our strategy is to aggressively test and draw a wide ring around the cases, to try and prevent further spread," said MOH.
π https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/lockdown-in-two-tan-tock-seng-hospital-wards-to-stem-spread-of-covid-19-now-a-cluster-of
π https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/new-covid-19-family-cluster-seeded-by-ica-officer-infection-likely-took-place-over
π https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/other-hospitals-staying-vigilant-following-possible-ttsh-cluster
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[10:24 am, 30/04/2021] +Valli: If the need arises,
Singapore also need to have short CB & restricted movement now before it goes out of control.
Community cases need to control now before it is too late like other countries.
Only essential movement allowed.
We need to do it differently from other countries.
Govt have already spent a huge sum to bring it under control & we can not afford to allow another wave of infection.
Now is the best time to implement short CB to contain the current rise in infection.
[10:28 am, 30/04/2021] +Valli: Another case of concern is the ever high rates of imported cases.
Something the authorities need to closely look into
[10:35 am, 30/04/2021] +KS Foong: The coming may day holiday could be a concern
[10:35 am, 30/04/2021] +Wilson Leong: We just need to isolate those cases that is found. Stop it from spreading
[10:54 am, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Massa gatherings?
[11:06 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Cannot understand why people at hospitals are not tested, especially visitors.
[11:07 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Also seeing large gatherings happening, such as Zumba groups. Last week there were 50 plus people in a small area doing their Zumba to music, no masks. I have no idea if that's allowed or not
[11:07 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Opening the workplaces while most workers are not vaccinated was premature.
[11:07 am, 30/04/2021] +Valli: The authorities has done an excellent job of locking down TTSH to tackle the new cluster.
But there is bound to have slip-ups & if more cases are detected, a short CB should be enforce.
There are crowds in many places,
[11:08 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Agreed and yes this was a slip up. It could prove costly and was entirely avoidable.
[11:08 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Remember the dormitories last year? That was v costly and also avoidable
[11:09 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: We on this group said opening up offices now was premature. Wait just a month or so for under 45 to start being vaccinated.
[11:10 am, 30/04/2021] +Valli: Vaccination is not conclusive of protection.
People are being lax after being vaccinated.
[11:10 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Viruses spread exponentially. It cannot be controlled when people gather until they are vaccinated. How many others were infected already.
[11:10 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Agreed, but you have to open up at some point.
[11:11 am, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Also I read that alcohol impairs vaccinated significantly. How many are reducing or stopping drinking after the jab?
[11:15 am, 30/04/2021] +Valli: Open up with strict restrictions is best as now there are more community cases.
Crowd control is crucial.
[11:18 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: From travellers
[11:18 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: All the recent cases were all from travellers
[11:18 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Unless we have hidden cases which is even more scary
[11:19 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: I think better to shelve it for the time being. The cases are getting worse around the world and variants seem to be increasing
[11:20 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Vaccination also no guarantee liao
[11:21 am, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: Somehow community and dorm cases are climbing up. On one hand it’s a cause for worry and yet another hand, it’s better to be detected than undetected. Very headache.
One thing is MANY PEOPLE ARE NO LONGER WEARING THEIR MASKS OUTDOORS. They put the mask on the chin and walk around pavement and sidewalks etc
Can I suggest SDA to start patroling heartland areas? Many of the people flouting the rules are in heartland areas where no SDA around.
[11:22 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: I think we should stop the problem at the source
[11:22 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Be more stringent on who we let in for the moment
[11:23 am, 30/04/2021] +Leonard Lau: We need strong message to the citizens again on the importance of social distancing , mask and hygiene . We can’t afford a lockdown .
[11:23 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: I read some where of Indians from India trying to circumvent the ban by going through other countries to get in here
[11:24 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Not being anything but cases in India are very serious now
[11:24 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: And the number of new variants coming from there is alarming
[11:24 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: I think we are already whacking the citizens very hard liao. It's nearly draconian as it is
[11:26 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Fact is, most of the cases are imported cases. I think addressing that is more important and effective than trying to control it after it gets in
[11:26 am, 30/04/2021] +Leonard Lau: We are slacking unfortunately
[11:26 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Yes but still much more impt to go after the source first
[11:27 am, 30/04/2021] +Leonard Lau: What is the point that social distancing and personal hygiene is not observed ?
[11:30 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: No initial carrier/patient, zero risk of spreading even if pple don't practise social distancing correctly
[11:30 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Have initial carrier/patient, even if rules are observed, no guarantee it will not spread
[11:30 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: From risk management point of view, option one is better
[11:31 am, 30/04/2021] +An fan: Agee, travellers should be tested before boarding the flights. Or SIA can do fast test before boarding?
[11:32 am, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Best way is to stop for the moment
[11:50 am, 30/04/2021] +Valli: Testing verification done by India, Bangladesh and a few other countries are not legitimate or trust worthy
[0:01 pm, 30/04/2021] +Valli: Received this video where the needle was inserted but not the fluid.
And the person must be thinking he has been vaccinated.
[0:02 pm, 30/04/2021] +YT: If you have been to TTSH, you will see that it is a time bomb waiting to explode. Just the pharmacy alone, there are hundreds of people waiting for more than 45 minutes for their medication. The room is air-conditioned, people are sitting or standing shoulder to shoulder.
Also, the gatekeepers seem to be asking all the wrong outdated questions. They seem more interested in knowing whether I am staying in in dorms or not. (I am not). Or whether I have traveled overseas. (I haven't, have you?!). What they should be asking shoild be relevant questions like where I work (marine, airport etc.,), or whether I have been vaccinated, etc., Also, the temperature sensors don't seem to be working. Is someone checking and recalibrating them? My temperature is a low 35.3 at times. And I can safely say I am not cold blooded.
[0:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +Valli: Experience the same thing in Polyclinic.
Where anyone with flu symptoms are sent to the room which is crowded and staff & patients not able to practise the 1 mtr distancing
[0:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +YT: Yes! And many sit around at coffeeships talking and laughing even after eating. Complacency has set in. People forget. Or people neglect to keep up safety measures. Please, nip these in the bud before it's too late!
[0:10 pm, 30/04/2021] +Boon: π
[0:10 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: I think it’s normal for fatigue to set in after a year plus of mask wearing but I fear another Circuitbreaker.
[0:12 pm, 30/04/2021] +Boon: Agreed its normal for fatigue to set in.
[0:13 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: We should go about our daily lives but still must wear masks. People are starting to be too lax about it.
[0:13 pm, 30/04/2021] +YT: If there's indeed another circuit breaker, then all these idiots are to be blamed. I actually told a group of uncles nicely that they should put on their masks if they are not eating. They laughed at me and said young man, don't be so scared die. What kind of attitude is this? And where are all the safe distancing ambassadors when you need them?!!
[0:16 pm, 30/04/2021] +Dong Liang: Many shopping malls, even CCs are not really enforcing the trace together scanning. Many are just half hearted in checking the scanning and temp taking. Perhaps all think the worst is over and Singapore is already on the way back to normal.
[0:17 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Weird - why was it being filmed?
[0:17 pm, 30/04/2021] +YT: And the temperature scanning machines are not working correctly! Everyone's temperature is less than 36.9.
[0:18 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Agreed - people are definitely slacking off.
[0:19 pm, 30/04/2021] +Dong Liang: It just takes one super spreader then all hell will break loose.
[0:20 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: This is right. If there are no imported cases we do not need to be so strict to old uncles. Unlikely there are hidden cases in the community.
[0:31 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Mandatory online theory test for e-scooter and e-bike riders to start from June 30: LTA
The handbooks for both theory tests have been published online, and will cover three modules for both groups of riders.
They comprise general information on active mobility devices, pre-journey and equipment checks, as well as the rules and code of conducts for using the devices.
More https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/mandatory-online-theory-test-for-e-scooter-and-e-bike-riders-to-start-from-june
[0:40 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Agreed. Prevent the imported cases by imposing testing on arrival and at least 3 days quarantine and another test before release.
[0:45 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Thought we are doing this already?
[0:50 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/sc-pr/requirements-and-process
[0:52 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: SHN etc is not mandatory, only "If Applicable"
[0:52 pm, 30/04/2021] +65 9847 9001: Yeah understandable
[0:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Not mandatory
[0:57 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Not sure why a test isn't required
[1:00 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: Maybe because they are θͺε·±δΊΊ anyway they are allowed to be back home.
[1:21 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
As it stands now, pending more tests:-
1. Among the 16 infected, only 1 vaccinated nurse got it.
2. In the latest test, among the 8 infected, only 1 vaccinated doctor got it.
3. The rest who are infected are all unvaccinated.
4. Pending further tests, other medical staff who are vaccinated seems to be ok and are not infected.
5. Based on the current scenario, look like vaccination is still a better position.
6. Fully vaccinated ones will have better protection when more are vaccinated - as they serve as barrier for virus to jump host (even if one slip through in a vaccinated one).
7. In our this TTSH case, when more unvaccinated ones are infected among the 1 or 2 vaccinated, it may slip through and infect some vaccinated one especially if :-
a. His or her immune system are not fully build up despite vaccination - as individual immune system varies from one another.
b. A mutant virus eg. S Africa, Brazil or India double mutants --- whereby the vaccine is less effective even though about 50% efficacy.
8. Hence, it is important for MOH to do a study to determine, which variants currently infect TTSH :-
a. Original strain
b. UK B117 strain
c. S Africa strain
d. Brazil strain
e. India double mutant strain
9. Thus upon knowing which strain, we will know how this strain get in - through imported cases? through a patient that has gone overseas or infected by imported cases? or through the nurse or doctor that has gone overseas or infected by imported cases?
[1:23 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Also need to check, if the vaccine cold supply chain are broken --- and cause the vaccine not effective (especially if the nurse, the doctor and others who are vaccinated by the same vaccine batch) ---- my close friend comment.
[1:24 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Yes, along of fake certifications and test results
[1:27 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: 5% vaccinated are vulnerable to Covid, that a relatively high proportion.
[1:27 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: We still need to keep tight measures
[1:28 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: In UK front line staff are tested every 72 hours vaccine or not.
[1:28 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
1. In ICA case, the ICA officer register for vaccination - but was rejected for vaccination because he has a few drug allergies incident.
2. Hence not surprising being a frontline staff in Changi Airport that are exposed to overseas travellers - will have a higher chance of infection.
3. Not surprising, all his 6 family members got infected - as they are not vaccinated as well.
[1:28 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Singapore firms more upbeat on prospects with ongoing roll-out of Covid-19 vaccines: Surveys
The business expectations of Singapore firms in both the manufacturing and services sectors improved as ongoing Covid-19 vaccinations across countries raised global economic prospects.
More : https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/singapore-firms-more-upbeat-on-prospects-with-ongoing-roll-out-of-covid-19-vaccines
[1:29 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: He should be reassigned to a different role temporarily
[1:29 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ: https://www.indiatoday.in/diu/story/-unmasking-israel-how-rapid-vaccination-against-covid-is-returning-lives-to-normal-here-1795188-2021-04-26
‘Unmasking’ Israel: How rapid vaccination against Covid is returning lives to normal here
[1:29 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Vaccination is not 100% foolproof as can be seen here.
Israel also indicate 6% fully vaccinated got infected.
Thus even though fully vaccinated, we still cannot relax - by not wearing masks.
Probably when the whole world got herd immunity - and covid stop - then humanity can then dispense with masks.
[1:30 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Yes
[1:32 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: He is not vaccinated then should be in a desk job for the time Being. I think we should control better the number of high risk travellers coming into Singapore
[1:33 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
More than 10,000 vaccinated Israel remove masks to do religious celebration by dancing, singing in close proximity but ended in stampede.
44 people die.
According to CNA news.
But we should also closely monitor Israel infection number to see any pick up in infection rate.
Israel has mask off for about 1 month already - the infection number hold steady.
[1:35 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: I saw this ,is this for real? I know the source is not straits times
[1:35 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: I thought this should be a loophole to be plugged , rather than to legitimise it...
[1:36 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: How long is the sometime here? 14 days? Or just few hours transfer time at airport?
[1:37 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: He didn't clarify
[1:37 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: How to check also
[1:37 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: France is prematurely opening up, see how their numbers will go https://variety-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/variety.com/2021/film/news/france-cinemas-reopening-2021-1234963052/amp/
[1:38 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Decisions are driven politically in many countries. Glad Singapore hasn't fallen into that trap.
[1:38 pm, 30/04/2021] +KS Foong: I read this somewhere. But it sounds reasonable.
[1:39 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: So we just copy international standard, those from high risk countries, they need to stay 14 days from lower risk countries before coming to Singapore.
[1:41 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
See Israel celebration - all vaccinated not wearing masks.
Will monitor any increase in infection.
[1:45 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Not always copying is right
[1:45 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: We copy who last time who said only sick pple should wear masks
[1:45 pm, 30/04/2021] +Fulgrim: Also need to make own judgement call I guess
[1:51 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
1. Now most important thing is to do effective contact tracing - for TTSH cases - as there are more patients, visitors and medical staff come from all places.
2. Ring-fence all close contacts - and impose quarantine and SHN.
3. Test all close contacts - to ensure no infection.
4. Do genome study of the virus - to determine what strain is causing the infection.
5. Got to ramp up vaccination - to quickly achieve herd immunity like Israel.
6. Ensure people continue to wear mask and observe social distancing.
[1:52 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/biontech-expects-covid-19-vaccine-trial-results-for-babies-by-14712984 BioNTech vaccines trial on babies. If successful, children and babies will also be protected.
[1:53 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Biontech vaccines trial results for 12 - 15 years old ready by July 2021.
Babies trial ready by September 2021.
[2:00 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
7. Study how TTSH slip through happen.
8. Is it infected by the nurse or doctor or is it infected by patients or visitors?
9. This will determine if vaccinated people can transmit the virus or not.
10. Wonder did the nurse and doctor wear PPE or just wearing mask without face screen? or wear face mask and face screen but still infected?
11. This will determine if medical staff need to wear PPE in general wards or just face masks with face screen suffice.
12. If nurse and doctor wear face mask, face screen or PPE - how come the virus can get through --- and both the medical staff are vaccinated?
[2:03 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: We are aware of Israel vaccination already but nothing to do with our country… please stop spamming on Israel π€¦π»
@+REACH it gets out of hand
[2:05 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
You mean we can't monitor other countries progress and learn from other countries?
[2:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: The thing is every country is slight different… and we would need to talk about what is within the country… Israel can force the citizen to take vaccine we can’t so no point keep sharing it when many things cannot be done
[2:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: I pretty sure government is aware of it..
[2:06 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
So you mean people success stories - we cannot learn?
[2:07 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Why so fearful of sharing people success stories and hide the truth?
[2:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Success story within their context of application.
Singapore is successful in our own way why other country can’t copy? Why all country can’t learn from the best.. need to know the limitations.
I don’t see the point keep sharing one countries success when it might not able to work here. Taiwan is successful as well. But the thing is no such thing as one size fit all.
[2:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +YT: The question is, is it really a success story or is it temporary?
[2:09 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Reach is to share knowledge.
This pandemic - no one has experience.
So sharing knowledge is important.
[2:09 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: We get your point but spamming Israel is not the way I feel
[2:09 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
So all the more - important to monitor and keep track to learn from others success or failure - so that we can adapt.
[2:10 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Reach is for people to share information.
If you are not interested, then don't have to read and feel spam.
[2:10 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: When spamming overly on one topic makes it hard for us to see what REACH is sharing.. and the topic we should discuss.
Anyway I zone out cause of all those Israel spam. Just sharing my view point. π
[2:11 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Up to you.
Won't stop you.
[2:11 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Yup hence I was reaching out to REACH on the limitation and try to keep within topic. To be more productive discussion.
[2:13 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Today's topic is study why the cases suddenly shoot up.
If you are only talk for the sake of talking - and cannot accept solutions from out of the box - then too bad for you.
I don't have to please you.
[2:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +En: Calm down π°
[2:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Nah don’t need to please me..
Just trying to help by having more interactive discussion and I think the sharing is getting out of hand. You may or may not agree.
You do share some useful insights sometimes. But spam on Israel to me just too much.
[2:16 pm, 30/04/2021] +En: Let’s discuss the topic ok? π
[2:17 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Well if need to find the right solution - if need be - I will still bring it up.
[2:17 pm, 30/04/2021] +En: A bit concerned abt the recent community cases but I think there are measures in place to control the spread. Hope people see this as a wake up call and be more vigilant πͺπ»
[2:19 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
US is also closely following Israel model
[2:19 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Sure.. it is meant for discussion and view point..
I have nothing against you, and your input some are useful. Personally just feel everything I log in I see Israel on the topic π₯
Can share other successful country as well not just one country would be more moderate.
[2:20 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
And if Israel continue to do well 1 or 2 months down the road - then we should use it as our model to follow.
[2:20 pm, 30/04/2021] +En: Vaccines wise I read that some of the cases were fully vaccinated. Also a bit worried but will still take the vaccine when it’s my turn. Heard that if you get infection at least still not so severe. What do y’all think?
[2:20 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Good thinking yes I agree with you
[2:21 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Firstly… just observed if you are virus train or biological safety train our current medical system is π€¦π»
Seeing doctors having bubble tea on work desk with gloves… not uncommon sight.
If MOM or MOH were to send people with the right qualification to audit them many will fail trust me
[2:23 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: First of all if you see food or drinks on the doctor’s desk you meet. Is an outright fail.
If they all know hot and cold desk operations.
[2:25 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Similar for reception desk in hospital… not supposed to even have food and drinks as they handle patient day in and out.. having a direct source of contamination nearby. But it is still acceptable in our context. We won’t say anything when we see it either.
[2:28 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: https://www.facebook.com/TanTockSengHospital/posts/10159441023918069
TTSH said all 4 cases are confirmed positive
[2:28 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: who saying the truth
[2:33 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: I am trained GMAC certified lab member for BSL2+, funny thing is you don’t need to much qualification to train people in handling virus. As long as your lab is certified, you can train people. π€·π»♂️
[2:40 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ: Note :-
Taiwan approach is quarantine, contact tracing and mask - but very slow in vaccination.
Taiwan basically close their borders well - and rely on their internal economy - about 20 million domestic economy - to continue to function.
Singapore cannot adopt Taiwan model - because Singapore domestic market is very small only 5.6 million people and our external economy is 3 times the size of our GDP.
Thus we cannot adopt Taiwan model of closing ourselves up.
Israel on the other hand is like Singapore - small population like us and also depends on external economy.
Hence Israel vaccination strategy is the right approach and a model for Singapore to follow.
US also have a large external economy and many MNCs investment outside. Hence US also need to open their border like Israel and Singapore.
[2:42 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: In additional for public information, there isn’t a body that will audit you yearly on your BSL2 lab. Based on sampling checks. (BSL2 lab are able to handle microorganisms that can spread diseases might not be deadly)
So is based on individual lab to handle the risk. Not so sure for commercial labs. Based on my research lab experience I am sharing. Not sure for BSL3 and above cause not involved
[2:42 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Taiwan is very late in its vaccination strategy.
Only in Apr 2021, Taiwan rely on covax to deliver AstraZeneca vaccine.
How can Singapore follow Taiwan model?
[2:43 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Taiwan didn’t get vaccine for political reason as many already know π
[2:43 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
So all the more we cannot follow Taiwan model.
[2:44 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ken: Orh.. noted. I go back to work.. continue later π
[2:46 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
13. Should we consider vaccinating the patients who need to be warded in hospitals - so that at least patients are protected.
14. Noting that TTSH patients are mainly elderly - where one is 94 years old.
15. If patients are vaccinated before warded - at least they are protected.
[2:52 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
If we follow Taiwan model by closing our borders instead of ramping up our vaccination like Israel - many businesses, investment and people jobs will be lost.
[2:57 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Israel model is leading the world out of the pandemic.
Taiwan model is like a turtle that hide itself in it shell. Forever be a slave to the covid.
How can we drop Israel model but follow Taiwan model?
[3:25 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Covid-19 jabs best protection against virus despite reinfections and transmission
Singapore - The latest increase in community cases is a stark warning to people not to become become complacent once they have received both vaccine jabs.
Yes, the vaccine does give significant protection, but even at best, that's 95 per cent protection against severe illness.What this means is that out of 20 people within the country who have been fully vaccinated, one could get very sick with Covid-19 should transmission occur.
More https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/covid-19-jabs-best-protection-against-virus-despite-reinfections-and-transmission
[3:26 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Exactly. Good news for the 19, but low chance isn't no chance!
[3:26 pm, 30/04/2021] +KS Foong: How to do it? Patient has to wait for 1 mth before they can get admission ? (It needs at least 35 days for full vaccination)
[3:27 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
If possible.
[3:28 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
One jab protection is better than nothing.
[3:29 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Also might be hard to monitor a patients health if there are also adjusting adjusting the vaccine.
[3:30 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Keep it simple. Test the patient. Online visitors only.
[3:30 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
That's why medical staff got to assess.
Not insisting but suggesting.
[3:30 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: We are only here to make suggestions ππ·
[3:31 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Rightfully those elderly should have been vaccinated if medically possible
[3:31 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Now they got infected - condition will be far worst.
[3:51 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Unrestricted night club in UK as a 'test'.... and they haven't vaccinated the under 40s yet. https://weraveyou.com/2021/04/liverpool-brand-circus-unveils-details-of-no-restrictions-uk-club-event/
[3:59 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: There is prerequisite. You can only spread virus when you have it. If all are tested negative and the test kits are good enough, the party should go well.
[4:18 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Testing, we know, is way less accurate than even the vaccination. Seems like a recipe for trouble to me. It'll be interesting to see, but since they don't have Trace Together, it will be hard to measure.
[4:19 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: This political party has never liked Liverpool, so the choice of location speaks volumes to me!
[4:54 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: 9 new Covid-19 community infections in S'pore, 4 linked to TTSH cluster
There were 24 new coronavirus cases confirmed as at Friday noon (April 30), taking Singapore's total to 61,145.
Among them are nine from the community.
More https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/24-new-covid-19-cases-in-singapore-including-9-in-the-community-and-15-imported
[5:03 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Just saw 8 or 9 elderly squeezing around a table on the benches not wearing masks talking and laughing.
No wonder community cases going up.
[5:30 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Have to play hard ball with them.
[5:31 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Later they bash me up if I confront them.
I outnumbered.
[5:32 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: With SDA/Auxiliary Police Officer assistance.
[5:35 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Unless they are around.
I only can shake my head and walk away.
[5:38 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Agree
[6:03 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: S'pore's outlook brighter this year, global recession less protracted than initially feared: PM Lee
External trends support the Republic's economic recovery and justify confidence in its prospects, he noted in his May Day message to workers.
While Europe is still struggling with fresh waves of Covid-19 cases, the United States is expected to make a strong recovery this year on the back of a large stimulus package and good progress in vaccinating its population.
More: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/spores-outlook-brighter-this-year-global-recession-less-protracted-than-initially-feared
[6:04 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: I think with the community cases rising this may be affected.
[6:05 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: More targeted support for pre-schoolers with developmental needs in S'pore in coming years
The families of pre-schoolers with developmental needs can look forward to more professional and targeted support within the schools in the coming years.
Inclusion coordinators will be appointed at the more than 1,900 pre-schools here and there will be a roll-out of more inclusive education training opportunities for teachers.
More https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/parenting-education/more-targeted-support-for-pre-schoolers-with-developmental-needs-in
[6:45 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,
⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰
Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.
Goodnight!
Megan
[6:45 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: Gdnite Megan
[6:50 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Dear contributors,
We will be extending the chat to 10pm today
Thank you.
[6:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Public urged to cap social gatherings at 2 a day; measures tightened to curb Covid-19 spread
Singaporeans have been urged to have no more than two social gatherings a day, as part of tightened measures put in place to curb the spread of Covid-19 in the community following a spike in new cases.
More: https://str.sg/JFCA
[6:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: Ahh no wonder chat time extended
[6:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Public places visited by Covid-19 cases that are part of TTSH cluster to be closed for two days
SINGAPORE - All public places visited by Covid-19 cases that are part of the community cluster at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) during their infectious period will be closed for two days for cleaning.
This measure aims to reduce the spread of the coronavirus from undetected cases in the community, the Ministry of Health said on Friday (April 30).
More; https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/public-places-visited-by-covid-19-cases-that-are-part-of-ttsh-cluster-to-be-closed-for-two
[6:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +Wilson Leong: Stay safe everyone
[7:02 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Think default work from home is the best to reduce social interactions
[7:02 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Ppl at home, will not want to meet friends in the evening
[7:02 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: Agree... but now no longer default.
[7:03 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Just that supermarket is busy
[7:03 pm, 30/04/2021] +Leonard Lau: Default as in during CB period ?
[7:05 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: S'pore bars long-term pass holders and visitors from Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka
All long-term pass holders and short-term visitors who have been in Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka within the last two weeks will no longer be allowed to enter or transit through Singapore, Education Minister Lawrence Wong announced on Friday (April 30).
This move, which kicks in from 11.59pm on Saturday, also applies to those who had transited through these countries and who had obtained prior approval for entry to Singapore.
More https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/spore-bars-long-term-pass-holders-and-visitors-from-bangladesh-nepal-pakistan-and-sri
[7:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: NMP Calvin Cheng should be reading this
[7:07 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: TTSH Covid-19 cluster: All patients and staff to be swabbed by this weekend
The mass screening at TTSH started on Thursday. It will not allow visitors on its wards until further notice.
"All our inpatients will be swabbed by this evening and all 4,500 staff will complete their swabbing by this weekend," said Dr Soh. The staff include doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and housekeepers.
More https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/all-ttsh-patients-and-staff-to-be-swabbed-by-this-weekend
[7:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: More measures need to step up as the virus seem to be lurking around secretly, waiting to give a quick blow.
[7:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: ππ»ππ»ππ»
[7:09 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Possible lock down phase in the planning
[7:11 pm, 30/04/2021] +Leonard Lau: How much are we drawing from SG reserves if it happens ?
[7:11 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Has to be done
[7:11 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: Well, at least we try to scale down when situation arises.
[7:11 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Sgd100 billion again!?
[7:12 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: Coz we cannot close forever and we cannot be covidiots too.. so expect the on and off switches on relaxing and tightening of measures.
[7:12 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Yes
[7:14 pm, 30/04/2021] +Kevinn Wang: No wants a shut down but neither can we be so open arms to countries which cannot control their rates of infection
[7:14 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
With more effective contact tracing and quick ring fencing, don't think another CB measure is warranted.
But keeping up with face masks, social distancing and ramp up vaccination will be a better choice.
Drawing on the reserves again should not be taken lightly unless things go out of control.
[7:14 pm, 30/04/2021] +Kevinn Wang: This pandemic needs every single country to work hand in hand socially
[7:14 pm, 30/04/2021] +CQ: I feel that it's not good guidance to use the word "should". We all know that "should" just means "carry on as per normal". Just make it a hard yes or no, go or no go. This "should" and "encourage" thing is bad law.
[7:14 pm, 30/04/2021] +Kevinn Wang: And country must enforce processes to ensure social responsibility
[7:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: Ya and some idiots were saying what is the use of vaccination since vaccinated also get infected?
[7:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: Just becoz vaccinated does not mean u are covid proof.
[7:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: It just reduces ur risk.
[7:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Agree
[7:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: When stacked with vaccination, face mask wearing, social distancing, every factor reduces ur risk more
[7:16 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: SingapoRediscovers vouchers scheme extended to year end, 'enhancements' to be introduced
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singaporediscovers-vouchers-scheme-extended-to-year-end-14719978
[7:16 pm, 30/04/2021] +CQ: I would go as far as to say it reduces the risk of the person suffering more serious effects which require medical intervention, thus reducing the risk of our healthcare system becoming overburdened.
[7:16 pm, 30/04/2021] +Kevinn Wang: Vaccination is just a ways to reduce risk, social enforcement like mask wearing must be in place but who cares USA is dropping that notation so the rest follows
[7:16 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: ππ»ππ»
[7:24 pm, 30/04/2021] +Leonard Lau: +1
[7:29 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Channel 8 news say if got problem redeeming tourism vouchers online, just need to bring IC to exchange for tourism vouchers at CC.
[7:29 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Finally STB take up this suggestion.
[7:34 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Mission fail. To degitization
[7:36 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Unless do a good job in digitalisation.
If rush for time and do patch up job - then mission will fail and tourism objective cannot be met
The outcome demonstrate this hard truth.
[7:40 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
See people's frustration in redeeming the tourism vouchers online?
Good policy, but poor implementation, tourism objective cannot be met.
[7:40 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: RUSH JOB!?
[7:40 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ: Yes rush job.
Bad outcome.
[7:42 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Not looking good for effort put in.
[7:43 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Expecting compliance issues!
[7:43 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
Learn from mistake.
Admit mistake.
Improve and become better.
Don't have to feel bad.
[7:47 pm, 30/04/2021] +Rama: Yes
[7:49 pm, 30/04/2021] +Wilson Leong: Everyone must do our parts to prevent another cluster from starting
[7:49 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: We are
[7:49 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: But these are uncontrollable
[7:49 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Like the ttsh
[7:49 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: And dorm
[7:49 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: https://www.facebook.com/93889432933/posts/10158265492522934/
Ttsh got Cluster of 61 cases?
[7:51 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Can Gov do random testing
[7:52 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Like those in hospital visitors and patience
[7:52 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: And Jewel and airport non transit areas
[7:52 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: ππ»
[7:56 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: I think should also do testing on the variant. It may be mutant variant that can be infectious despite vaccination.
[7:59 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: 57 people, 15 outlets breached safe distancing measures recently; enforcement to be stepped up immediately
Government agencies will step up enforcement checks at all premises, including food and beverage (F&B) premises, parks, malls and other hotspots starting from this weekend, the Ministry of Sustainability and Environment (MSE) announced on Friday (April 30).
This comes amid increased Covid-19 transmissions in the dormitories and community hereand after a number of premises and individuals were recently caught breaking the rules.
More https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/57-people-15-outlets-breached-safe-distancing-measures-recently-enforcement-to-be
[8:07 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: https://youtu.be/s-ytCyMkNWY
Seems like the nurses and docs in TTSH don't know the symptoms of Covid-19
[8:07 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: don't know the symptoms of Covid-19
[8:27 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: The station name in chinese, very smell lei
[8:27 pm, 30/04/2021] +Caleb: Later waste money, to change the sign boards
[8:46 pm, 30/04/2021] +XaniceAfcai: Not every boss think likewise. They will say what can u do at hm.
[8:48 pm, 30/04/2021] +XaniceAfcai: π±. Like that each of their family member also need to test...
[8:51 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: I guess they can't make it law, and are trying to encourage social responsibility?
[8:51 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Correct
[8:53 pm, 30/04/2021] +CQ: Sigh... Social responsibility is just not something in people.... Just look at how many people wearing chin mask and mask below the nose...
[8:54 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: π
[8:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +XaniceAfcai: Worst...
But i think some ppls still think i alr vaccine.. Scare what... They have that mentality....
Hope the ttsh case can wake them up.. Vaccine does not mean confirm wont tio...
[8:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +65 9009 7919: Anyone know of products that helps for the mute, if the person can do lip read on the person speaking.
[8:55 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Yes, I see this too. People are getting fatigued and complacent.
[8:56 pm, 30/04/2021] +XaniceAfcai: We bo culture fr young
[8:56 pm, 30/04/2021] +CQ: More complacent than fatigue, I would say....
[8:57 pm, 30/04/2021] +CQ: Yup...... Even when the schools taught ε₯½ε ¬ζ° back then, there were parents actively undoing the good values by scolding the kid for being silly.
[8:59 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Not a positive story, but this vaccine is used extensively in parts of the world. If it's bogus we have problems, if it's not then the West media needs to apologise.
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/apr/30/is-russias-covid-vaccine-anything-more-than-a-political-weapon-sputnik-v?CMP=Share_AndroidApp_Other
[9:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: Some posts on Twitter say COVID-19 is a biological weapon
[9:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: How is that decision to encourage people back to office looking now?
[9:06 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: We all said on this Forum it was premature. Mixed message. Too soon.
[9:07 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Now people are talking CB again?
[9:07 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: That is why they open to 75% wio and not 100% wio... so if need to retreat, can retreat easier.
[9:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Still didn't make sense really. What was the reasoning?
[9:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Why not go to 50%
[9:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: No lah
[9:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: Now all should wfh liao
[9:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: News just flash
[9:08 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Yes, true
[9:10 pm, 30/04/2021] +Ben: Oh I see
[9:13 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
This is the "spike-cool" model approach to handle pandemic.
[9:13 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: Someone joked online whenever releasing date on travel bubble with HK we would have more community cases.
[9:14 pm, 30/04/2021] +Elena Woo: πππππ
[9:15 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: WHO should find out where and how this Covid-19 come out. Find the root cause.
[9:16 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
In balancing public health safety with the Economy - this "spike-cool" model will help to optimise business and job creation while keeping public health safety in check.
[9:18 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
It provides elasticity in adjusting the model - by tightening when spike surge and loosening when pandemic recede - to balance the best economic outcomes and the public health safety.
[9:22 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
This model will still be relevant when until :-
1. Our country achieve herd immunity (end of the year)
2. The world achieve herd immunity (few years later).
[9:24 pm, 30/04/2021] +XaniceAfcai: Not all bosses think likewise.
[9:33 pm, 30/04/2021] +An fan: Why TTH suddenly got so many cases? Can it be some vaccinated people still be infected without symptoms but still infect others?
[9:34 pm, 30/04/2021] ☸️ Danny εΏ:
The reason why Singapore economic growth do well this year - partly we adopt this "spike-cool" model plus many government budget and covid management measures ----- to drive the economic output while balancing and keeping the public health safety in check.
[9:36 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: Hopefully gov will do something about this
[9:36 pm, 30/04/2021] +Alvin Lim: Hence I say 75% is questionable
[9:45 pm, 30/04/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,
⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰
Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.
Goodnight!
Megan
=======
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