REACH 300 - What are your views and suggestions for the upcoming Budget 2022? How can we work together to thrive in a post-COVID-19 world, build a fairer, more inclusive home, and work toward a greener, more sustainable future?(SK)

08 Dec 2021 (10am - 7pm)

REACH

[10:06 am, 08/12/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,

Welcome back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from * 10.10am to 7pm* today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind: 

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited.

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment.

4. No need to repeat your comment or in different forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time.

5. Let’s protect each other’s privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://go.gov.sg/reach-whatsapp-terms

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all.

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies.

The topic will be posted shortly.

Thank you

Megan 😊

[10:10 am, 08/12/2021] +REACH: 📢 Topic 📢 

Ahead of the Budget 2022 presentation in February, Singaporeans may share their views and suggestions for the upcoming Budget from 7 Dec 2021 till 17 Jan 2022. 

The post-Covid-19 world will be a fundamentally different one that will call for Singapore to refine its strategies and plans to seize new opportunities, said the Ministry of Finance, government feedback unit Reach and the People's Association in a joint statement on 7 Dec (Tues).

💬 What are your views and suggestions for the upcoming Budget 2022? How can we work together to thrive in a post-COVID-19 world, build a fairer, more inclusive home, and work toward a greener, more sustainable future?

Suggestions are being sought based on three themes:

📌 Thriving in a Post-COVID World

What are the challenges and opportunities for families/households, workers and businesses in the post-COVID-19 world? What more can be done to help them thrive and seize new opportunities?

📌 Strengthening our social compact to build a fairer and more inclusive home for all

What can we do as individuals and as a community, together with the Government, to build a fairer and more inclusive home? What are some under-served needs and concerns of lower-income and vulnerable groups?

📌 Preparing Singaporeans and Singapore for a greener and more sustainable future

How can businesses, individuals and households contribute to a greener, more sustainable Singapore? How can the Government facilitate these efforts and help businesses and workers seize green growth opportunities?

👉 https://str.sg/3xb4 

👉 https://www.mof.gov.sg/singaporebudget/about-budget

👉 https://www.mof.gov.sg/singaporebudget/budget-2021/resources/

📌 You may also share your views and find more resources here: https://www.reach.gov.sg/budget2022

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[11:29 am, 08/12/2021] +Anthony: Hi Reach,

I urge the Governmentnt to given out more GST Voucher to those who only work for Part-Time &  Those who are Low-Income earner by giving away another few more hundreds dollars ,

This group of national Wil be able to enjoy better quality of living

From Food to Necessities.

As well, Given out more such like Rediscovery Voucher. every year to those well unfortunate one & low income earner to explore more singapore famous location

Thank You

[0:57 pm, 08/12/2021] +Elena Woo: More subsidies for childcare for all parents.

[1:03 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Focus on: sustainability through technology; Non academic Education programmes; Community support and events;  Mental and physical screening and support.

[1:04 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Invest to become a world leader in consultancy, operations, technology and digital services.

[1:05 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Where people are struggling, create support services that benefit the many rather than individuals.

[1:05 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: One person or families problem is likely to be the same for many people.

[1:06 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: 💬 What are your views and suggestions for the upcoming Budget 2022? How can we work together to thrive in a post-COVID-19 world, build a fairer, more inclusive home, and work toward a greener, more sustainable future?

I think there's no need to frame the future as "post-COVID" as most of the macro-trends confronting our nation like shrinking labor force/tax base, heightened wealth inequality and ageing population are all present before COVID and will continue to determine our future as a nation after COVID. Beyond the COVID resiliency package - which would still be needed to help the economy and households transit back to normalcy - I think the key focus of our government must be to figure out how to deal with the challenges of an ageing population. 

If our govt does as well in tackling this challenge as they have been in increasing our birth rates... we are doomed.

[1:06 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Maintain political and social stability through inclusive policy making and distributed investment

[1:07 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Agree with first point, let's not frame this as post covid.

[1:08 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: It'll look foolish if covid rears up again in late 2022

[1:08 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: More specifically, I wish the government can take the lead and role-model hiring mid-career or post 50s workers into public-sector jobs. This is necessary as the private sector won't bother with that. Most MNCs will just weigh the cost-benefit and move if labor crunch in SG gets too severe.

[1:09 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Interesting thought. Also mature workforce might be beneficial/motivated to public service.

[1:12 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: My wish is also that the govt can be more focused on its budgetary plans. Given the significant fiscal impact of COVID, we need to be very judicious in the kind of programs that we fund with public money. For example - while eco-sustainability is a popular buzzword - there's very little impact that SG can have as a tiny city state on global climate change or eco-sustainability. Limited funds should be channeled towards our most pressing challenges and not be used to pursue fashionable ideas where we may or may not have an impact.

[1:14 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: We can make a difference through developing tech and knowledge that can be sold around the world. For example in food production, energy conversion and transport.

[1:14 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: For every dollar that is spent on encouraging EV or recycling, I'd rather it be channeled to fund effective treatment for rare diseases in Singapore (it's not properly funded at the moment) to create a more equitable society.

[1:15 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: If we do it right, the investment into sustainability will generate a revenue stream to fund non income generating needs, such as healthcare.

[1:15 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: I think we are already late in the game to this. I wonder how much difference public funding can do to improve things. Remember how our govt poured money into biomedical research in the early 2000s with the goal of creating a biomedical hub here in SG. Until now, we barely have anything to show for it.

[1:15 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: We are spending $100bn on climate change protection. This is a problem we cannot escape.

[1:16 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: Sea wall - yes, good investment.

[1:16 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: We cannot solve it alone, agreed. But we can provide the tools to help other countries help to do their bit

[1:16 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: but not necessary to subsidize EV, carbon tax, etc. no difference.

[1:16 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Sure,I don't know about that.

[1:17 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: I'm looking from an investment point of creating tools and services we can sell that help combat climate change.

[1:17 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: anyway just my opinion. I'm sure govt have their plans/analysis. Just voicing my personal wish.

[1:17 pm, 08/12/2021] +Dan: Hi Reach, I think we can explore the use of Segway more. I understand its used by SPF, CISCO. If Segway can be used within the neighbourhood colour-coded or sticker-labelled within each area, it will greatly minimise the traffic within the area.

[1:17 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: That's why we we all here 🙂

[1:18 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: 👍

[1:22 pm, 08/12/2021] +JC: I guess my point is - esp looking at the biomedical experience - we can't be changing our focus/goals every time a new topic comes up. Many of these new areas/industry will require long term and very strategic investments - whole of govt effort. We need to focus on fewer things given our limited manpower and scale, on the things that that we will do anyway because of other considerations, regardless of the flavor of the month, so that we can do them well and to a world class standard in order to compete globally.

[1:24 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: That's true, but maybe it's finding a balance between riskier short-term investment to stimulate private money (like Bio) and long term infrastructure (like sea wall)

[1:31 pm, 08/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Part A :- Sustainability - greener solutions for the upcoming Budget

1. Energy cost has been spiking recently. Also noted that despite hedging ourselves from fuel cost that can go up and down by subscribing to fixed tariff electricity rate - contract is short and when ends - will again subject to higher tariff if to take up a new tariff plan.

Hence, propose the following to hedge against fluctuating electricity price for common household :-

a. Install Solar Panel - on top of providing for electrical needs around the common housing amenties, should also consider installing solar panel to service each housing unit to cater for half the energy needs (this will help to even up or mitigate fluctuating oil price and power bill) - and make power bill more affordable and predictable every quarter for each household.

Household can pay a flat annual fee for maintenance of their solar panel.

Eg. of solar panel for each housing unit could be - windows solar panel, vertical wall of each housing unit (sufficient to cater for half of the energy needs for each housing unit).

(need not be in the roof top - as the roof top solar panel are for common amenities).

b. Roll out the use Extreme White Paint (or Ultra White Paint) for each housing unit - that can curb global warming - whitest paint yet. Coating buildings with this paint can cool the housing units enough to reduce the need for air conditioning.

(Note :- The new whitest paint formulation reflects up to 98.1% of sunlight – compared with the 95.5% of sunlight reflected by the researchers’ previous ultra-white paint – and sends infrared heat away from a surface at the same time.)

If the Ultra White Paint is successful, then DCS will only need to be pipe into common facilities like Community Club, MRT, Shopping Mall etc instead of each housing unit.

c. Implement District Cooling System (DCS) sector-by-sector - Central system that distribute chilled water to supply air-conditioning to each housing unit, MRT, shopping mall, Community Club etc.

DCS achieve the purpose of saving energy, saving space, and inhibiting air-pollution - a very efficient cooling system.

[1:51 pm, 08/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Part B :- Build a fairer, more inclusive home

1. Share-Car for rent with EV-charging point. As owning car is a luxury, residents sometimes will need to rent a car to run errands, fetch school children or go out for family outing. Having a share-car system within the community will make it convenient for residents to access car-hiring services.

2. Supporting business - especially SME, F&B, toursim business, hospitality, events management, aviation etc - that are greatly hit by the covid.

- Even though the threat from the current Delta wave has been more or less controlled, Omicron threat is still looming worldwide.

- Though we have negotiated many VTLs, Omicron still make travelling wary and not picking up.

- Hence, all those mention business wil still face difficulties in recovering.

- In fact, walking around, notice that many f&b and stall-owners have closed shops.

- The Budget should compassionately provide support for these business by helping them to continue transforming digitally or other means and give some short term and medium term support to ensure they can tie over the covid.

3. Help those workers who have lost their jobs, those fresh graduates that have yet to find jobs, older mature workers who are retrenched to find jobs. For those part-time workers, free-lancers who wish to look for permanent jobs - provide help and support.

4. Need to rebuild our Economy and grow our Sovereign wealth - as we have dig out multiple billions from our reserves to finance our exceptional covid Budget for the last 2 years and the upcoming Budget.

We have to continue to grow our Sovereign Wealth to ensure that our reserves our strong so that we can:-

a. Produce higher NIRC every year - to help us to fund our fiscal budget - and cushion the impact of the need to raise tax.

b. Save for rainy days - in case future Disease X hit.

[1:52 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Part B. Yes to 1. We already have an EV car share service, called Blue SG. I tried it for 6 months but the cars were rarely available. I assume this means it was popular and seems an obvious target fir investment.

[1:53 pm, 08/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Not available near my place.

Need more.

[1:53 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Yes to 2. People are desperate to travel. Singapore is safe and easy to come to. Let's do a push to bring more (vaxd) tourists.

[1:54 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: 100% agree

[1:54 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Yes to 3. This is key to economic recovery and social cohesion.

[1:55 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: And yes to 4. We are dependent on a strong economy foundation. We need to replace the people who left SG over the last 18 months because they bring income, tax and expenditure with them.

[2:27 pm, 08/12/2021] +Boon: 👍

[2:47 pm, 08/12/2021] +RH: Yes to all.

[2:48 pm, 08/12/2021] +RH: Yes to 1a. 

Never heard of 'white paint ' ... 

Pls enlighten.  Tks.

[2:49 pm, 08/12/2021] +Gcml: Yes for all. 👍🏼

[2:51 pm, 08/12/2021] +Gcml: 1a. Yes. 

Indeed, our geographical location gives advantage to harness solar energy. There's room for growth in this aspect.

[3:03 pm, 08/12/2021] +RH: Building the sea wall is a necessary move in the right direction.

I applaud the Gov on their foresight in this. 

Also, spending $$$ on helping to mitigate climate change is not cost effective.

I wud rather tt we spend the same,  if not more,  on protecting our shores  (and underwater as well) 

from potential harm tt r indirect effects of climate change tt may affect us.  

We shd not take our geographical advantage for granted.

[5:58 pm, 08/12/2021] +Smiley face: https://youtu.be/7OpM_zKGE4o

[5:59 pm, 08/12/2021] +Smiley face: https://youtu.be/y5Vt8vJrvm4

[6:01 pm, 08/12/2021] +Smiley face: https://youtu.be/9UjnUjhEbW0

[6:03 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/football-first-jssl-fa-cup-for-youth-to-take-place-from-dec-10-12

[6:04 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Well done STB! This is a positive move

[6:40 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: I buy all my electricity from a company that offers a 100% solar power option. Unfortunately I have to pay a premium for this, which is weird in my view. Surely polluting the planet should cost more to do......

[6:40 pm, 08/12/2021] +Rama: 😨😱😳🤦‍♀️

[6:43 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Yep - 10% premium to use 100% solar! We're not talking Carbon Credits either, proper Sun powered energy :)

[6:44 pm, 08/12/2021] +Rama: What plausible explanation is there!?

[6:45 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: It's more expensive at the moment, so I understand that, but with a subsidy, maybe for lower income families, to even it out then we'd see economies of scale kick in to bring down the price for everyone.

[6:45 pm, 08/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. HDB can build new flats with solar panels upfront to power each HDB units.

2. For all existing HDB, retrofit with yearly Budget.

3. Use ultra white paint for all new HDB flat.

4. HIP home improvement program for all existing HDB flats to paint ultra white paint.

[6:45 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: Also the Singapore developed glass film that reduces heat and lowers the need for Air-Con

[6:46 pm, 08/12/2021] +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

[6:46 pm, 08/12/2021] +BL: And building designs that use convection to create air flow and also reduce the need for air-con

[6:57 pm, 08/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Do note that solar power not 24/7… so you need battery during the non sun times…. 

Battery technology still not environmentally friendly to make. And often requires expensive materials… but of course earlier the implementation the better cause of the cost will increase over time. 

Unless new material is use. 

Cobalt, lithium and copper are still the core for all batteries

[6:59 pm, 08/12/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

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REACH 299 - With the emergence of the Omicron variant, how concerned are you? How can we remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19? (SK)

06 Dec 2021 (10am - 7pm)

REACH

[9:44 am, 06/12/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,

Welcome back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from * 10am to 7pm* today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind: 

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited.

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment.

4. No need to repeat your comment or in different forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time.

5. Let’s protect each other’s privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://go.gov.sg/reach-whatsapp-terms

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all.

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies.

The topic will be posted shortly.

Thank you

Megan 😊

[10:00 am, 06/12/2021] +REACH: 📢 Topic 📢 

There were 552 new Covid-19 infections in Singapore on Sunday (Dec 5), including a new imported Covid-19 case who has tested preliminarily positive for the Omicron variant. He arrived here from South Africa on Dec 1 and was on the same flight as two previous Omicron cases. He had not interacted with the community and there is currently no evidence of any community transmission from the case, said MOH.

At the Multi-Ministry Taskforce press conference on 30 November, it was explained that the Omicron variant is an unknown threat. Measures were immediately taken to reduce the risk of the variant establishing itself in our community, while the Ministry of Health (MOH) works with its international counterparts to find out more about the variant. 

💬 With the emergence of the Omicron variant, how concerned are you? How can we remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19?

▶️ Vaccination: There is an emerging view amongst scientists around the world that existing COVID-19 vaccines will still work on the Omicron variant, especially in protecting people against severe illness. While studies on vaccine effectiveness for infection and severe disease compared to previous variants are ongoing, there is strong scientific consensus that we should take our vaccinations and boosters to protect ourselves against any existing and future variants of COVID-19.

▶️  Effectiveness of tests: MOH said studies show that in addition to the polymerase chain reaction test, antigen rapid tests are also effective in detecting Omicron cases. 

▶️ Transmissibility: Early clinical observations from South Africa and globally suggest that the variant may have increased transmissibility. It may also be associated with a higher risk of re-infection, compared to the Delta and Beta variants. This means that there is a higher likelihood of individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 to be re-infected with the Omicron variant.

▶️ Severity: Cases who have been detected around the world have mostly displayed mild symptoms, and no Omicron-related deaths have been reported so far. Common symptoms reported include sore throat, tiredness and cough.

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/too-early-to-determine-omicrons-severity-but-scientists-say-existing-covid-19

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[10:04 am, 06/12/2021] +Caleb: Have to consider wear N95 or KN95 or double mask - surgical and cloth mask when going to indoor or public transport with large crowds

[10:05 am, 06/12/2021] +Caleb: keep social contacts, minimum and closed

[10:08 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: Not too concerned at the moment because Gov is taking cautious steps. Virus mutate all the time, such as Flu. We need to get used to this and not let Covid become an obsession. Living in the West after 9/11, all people talked about was terrorism and the War on Terror. It dominated everything for years. Really hoping we do not let Covid become the War on Viruses....

[10:09 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: After 20 years of the War on Terror, the US withdrew from Afghanistan and handed the country back to the Taliban, as we all know. $Trillions of dollar was spent on that.

[10:10 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: It's good we are being careful. I just got back from Europe and it's not well managed over there. We see the results of indecision and lack of care. Rules are not enforced.

[10:12 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: It's also good we are 'opening up' because it's not practical or healthy to live under constant social limitations.

[10:13 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: "With the emergence of the Omicron variant, how concerned are you? How can we remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19? - same as before. After 22 months, we all know the drill.

[10:14 am, 06/12/2021] +Cross finger: I’m not too concerned.   

96% of our eligible population is vaccinated (87% of the total population is vaccinated).  28% of total population has had boosters.  Everyone is still wearing masks.   

The Government and the population has done as much as it can – more than almost any other country.   

We need to move on.  

There is endless stats on the differences between vaccinated and non-vaccinated.  I’m afraid if non-vaccinated people get Omicron now that’s their own fault.

[10:17 am, 06/12/2021] +Cross finger: Completely agree.  If we can't live life what's the point in being alive?

[10:17 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: 100% - well said.

[10:18 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: Yes, you summed it up really well in your earlier message. We've done everything, more than any other country. Please, let's move on to more productive conversations.

[10:21 am, 06/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Living in fear is the worst.

But we also have to learn from this. Cause if the day disease X come won’t be so forgiving. 

To let the people have a feel of how life will be like.

[10:22 am, 06/12/2021] +Ken Loh: And let the government really work on a viable model and with real life implementation to know all the hidden cost and how much it takes to run all these and the trouble of implementing it.

[10:24 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: Gov seems to have found it's pace handling this. I'm content to support them as they balancing opening up with containing outbreaks. It won't be perfect, but they're doing a good job.

[10:25 am, 06/12/2021] +BL: Unless there is something new to discuss then I'm focusing elsewhere!

[10:26 am, 06/12/2021] +jimmy chew: I think we are a special breed of people, who take control of our lives, that why we're in Reach.. haha.. I was surprised to hear some of my neighbors are worried but surprisingly the older gen are non that panicky, their children are, telling them not to travel or go out of the house.

[10:27 am, 06/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Also a problem sometimes… within a small circle never hear from the other end of the spectrum 😅

[10:28 am, 06/12/2021] +Ken Loh: We are educate and pretty much more involved in the community issues. But does not always representative of the public. Just a small sub group

[10:39 am, 06/12/2021] +JC: "With the emergence of the Omicron variant, how concerned are you? How can we remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19? - not super concerned as I expect the MMTF to have taken the necessary steps in the background already to improve our healthcare surge capacity, plus accelerating approvals & supply of oral COVID therapies that will allow most infected patients - even older, at risk population - to recover at home (like a normal influenza episode). 

I expect Omicron to reach out shores soon given the many VTLs and I would urge the MMTF to make sure we have the systems and processes in place to cushion the spike in infection - which should be mostly mild given our high vaccination rates and early data on Omicron - without needing to impose tightening of measures again. 

More stringent measures in testing incoming travelers without long quarantine period will be helpful to limit risk of transmission from VTLs.

[10:59 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Omicron are mainly from overseas and have not come ashore yet.

Hence more vigilant to test travellers coming to Singapore become more important to ensure that they do not bring in Omicron while the world medical community are doing deep study on the nature of this Omicron.

2. This will help us to buy time to further bolster our internal defence:-

a. Get the unvaccinated vaccinated.

b. Ramp up booster to those eligible.

3. Preliminary study shows that those vaccinated show very mild or no symptoms - a good defence against not only Omicron but also all covid strains.

4. Maintain current social distancing measures - ie no need to roll back or open up more - as we wait for more data on Omicron to emerge.

5. The current measures are sufficient to get our economy going and a good balance to maintain public health safety - as can be seen from the various covid infection indicators.

6. We have managed to control the latest Delta wave.

 Except I am a bit concern about the daily death number.

7. When we get more accurate data about the Omicron - we can then come up with more measure approach on how to tackle the Omicron while opening up our economy.

[11:00 am, 06/12/2021] +Caleb: WFH should be defult, until after 2022 CNY at least

[11:03 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Note :- we still have 4% adults and elderly unvaccinated.

2. We have about 10% children unvaccinated.

3. We need to get these 2 last groups vaccinated - before we can do bolder steps once we get more data about the Omicron.

4. S Africa experience shows that many unvaccinated children are infected and send to hospitals.

[11:05 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

https://sg.news.yahoo.com/worrying-number-children-pregnant-women-153102050.html

Worrying' number of children and pregnant women in hospital as omicron surges in South Africa.

[11:05 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/will-covid-19-drugs-be-less-effective-against-the-omicron-variant

Will Covid-19 drugs be less effective against the Omicron variant?

A concern raise on monoclonal antibodies treatment.

[11:05 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Big outbreak of Omicron in Norway in a big Christmas party.

https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/omicron-coronavirus-cases-from-oslo-christmas-party-may-surge-to-100

[11:05 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Too early to determine Omicron's severity, but experts say existing Covid-19 vaccines offer protection: MOH.                                                                                                                              https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/too-early-to-determine-omicrons-severity-but-scientists-say-existing-covid-19

[11:05 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/early-clinical-observations-globally-suggest-omicron-covid-19-variant-may-have-higher-reinfection-risk-moh-2359701

Early clinical observations globally suggest Omicron COVID-19 variant may have higher reinfection risk: MOH

[11:11 am, 06/12/2021] +Elena Woo: I think children below 5 and below 12 need to be vac asap. Omicron seems to hv higher severity for the younger ones as they are currently unvac.

[11:13 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Agree.

If Omicron comes, it will infect like wildfire - because their transmission rate R0 is higher than Delta.

[11:15 am, 06/12/2021] +Cross finger: This is exactly what was said about Delta and it hasn't happened because we're vaccinated and wearing masks.

[11:16 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Delta didn't infect thousands of Singaporeans everyday?

[11:17 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Despite vaccination and wearing masks?

[11:17 am, 06/12/2021] +Cross finger: No. Covid has.  The MOH hasn't determined which variant each infected person has (or certainly hasn't published that) so saying so it a pure guess.

[11:19 am, 06/12/2021] +Cross finger: As has been discussed here to death, there was inevitably going to be an increase in infection rates once we opened up.    Vaccination and mask is why our infection rate was - and remains - so low compared to other countries.

[11:20 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/delta-most-prevalent-covid-19-variant-in-singapore-for-now

[11:27 am, 06/12/2021] +Cross finger: That article was six months ago and is about a two or three week snapshot in May.  As said, the MOH doesn't publish the stats (or if it does it's very hidden in the website).

[11:29 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Delta is now the only dominant strain in the world.

[11:30 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

http://www.ncid.sg/News-Events/News/Pages/Delta-strain-behind-the-rising-death-toll-from-COVID-19.aspx

Ncid report.

[11:32 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/delta-covid-variant-now-dominant-worldwide-drives-surge-us-deaths-officials-2021-07-16/

Delta COVID variant now dominant strain worldwide, U.S. deaths surge -officials

[11:33 am, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/09/22/delta-dominant-variant-mu-who/

Delta is ‘by far’ world’s most dominant coronavirus variant, WHO says

It’s outcompeting mu and other coronavirus variants

[0:03 pm, 06/12/2021] +Cross finger: You often re-post links to articles like this where the pithy headline supports your point but the content of the article actually doesn't.

The discussions is about Singapore so: 

- the Washington post article is not relevant because "the World" (which is what the article is referring to) is not the same as Singapore since "the World" has not taken the same approach to wearing masks, social distancing, inbound quarantine or had the same vaccinate roll-out as Singapore has. 

- the Reuters article is again about "the World" but actually seems to be based on US numbers, so again is not relevant to the situation in Singapore.

The supposed "NCID Report", this is actually a repost on the NCID website of a 23rd August Straits Times article so it's not an actually an NCID report at all.   

The reposted Straits Times article says that more Covid victims in Singapore that die had the Delta strain and I don't dispute that.  But the discussion is about infections not deaths.  The Straits Times article doesn't contain any stats on whether Delta is currently the most prevalent strain of Covid in Singapore; it may be but it doesn't say that it is.

Incidentally one of the only stats that the Straits Times article does contain is that in the UK the Delta mortality rate was actually lower than the Alpha mortality rate:

"He pointed to a release by Public Health England this month that showed lower mortality in people infected with the Delta variant compared with the Alpha variant. Out of 226,446 people in Britain who had Alpha, 4,284 - or 1.9 per cent - died. Against this, out of 300,117 who were infected with Delta, 743 - or 0.25 per cent - have died."

Again, demonstrating that these comparisons are not necessarily that helpful.

[0:04 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

You need a platform to step down is it.

Let readers decide who make more sense.

[0:21 pm, 06/12/2021] +BL: Yes asap please

[0:23 pm, 06/12/2021] +BL: This makes a lot of sense, thanks for taking the time to write it.

[0:27 pm, 06/12/2021] +JC: +1 ya... Danny just spam selective articles. Not very useful usually cos we all know how to Google.

[0:27 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/covid19-delta-variant-surge-cases-ncid-director-leo-yee-sin-2204181

NCID executive director explains how Delta variant is fuelling COVID-19 surge

[0:27 pm, 06/12/2021] +Caleb: + 2

[0:28 pm, 06/12/2021] +65 9729 3850: +3 no point keep repasting news articles and spam this chat group

[0:29 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Delta is indeed the most dominant strain in Singapore currently.

[0:34 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

And if we get reckless like Europe, Omicron has all the potential to crowd out Delta - and become the dominant strain.

[0:35 pm, 06/12/2021] +Joseph: So.. where do you draw your references from since according to you, "Washington post article is not relevant...", "Reuters article is again about "the World" but actually seems to be based on US numbers...", " supposed "NCID Report", this is actually a repost on the NCID website ....", "reposted Straits Times article says that more Covid victims in Singapore that die had the Delta strain ....But the discussion is about infections not deaths ....article doesn't contain any stats on whether Delta is currently the most prevalent strain" and "the MOH doesn't publish the stats (or if it does it's very hidden in the website)" .... 🤷‍♂️

[0:36 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Especially if we have insufficient data to determine how harmful or harmless Omicron.

Until we have more information.

[0:44 pm, 06/12/2021] +Joseph: How ironic that some of the people complaining (directly to REACH moderators) of "abusive behavior" see nothing wrong with ganging up against another contributor who is simply sharing his opinion AND substantiating it with sources he used for the analysis which led to his conclusions.  What is the logic behind insisting suppressing FACTUAL news/data/links?

[0:48 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Don't worry.

We just need to be factually correct.

Provide good analysis and insight.

REACH and the government will know how to make use of the information and implement policies that benefit the Country.

I am veteran enough to withstand cyber bullying.

I use to be very active in foreign forum - where cyber bullying is even more intense 

So let us stick to issue, stick to facts and provide our best well meaning contribution and feedback.

It won't go to waste.

[0:57 pm, 06/12/2021] +Joseph: The trouble is, many people are familiar with the existence of statistics, but few actually understand it well enough to be able to apply it in the right way. 

I would suggest you continue with what you doing and not pay too much attention to the vocal minority.

Seriously, if the comment is too long or I am not interested in the views/comments from certain contributors, I just skip over the messages. Takes me an extra second to do that. 

Suppressing a dissenting view/comment will eventually lead to echo chambers ... in which case, I wonder why not these people just form a separate chat, invite REACH Moderators (if needed) and like-minded "friends", and carry on with the echoing, high-fiving and back slapping 😂

[1:01 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Hahaha.

Yes agree.

We can develop high EQ with such platform.

We can also develop good WQ (Wisdom Quotient) - by putting our analysis and insight for people to challenge.

If we can withstand the veracity and rigorous challenge of our feedback and contribution - then our contribution will be valuable to the government and the nation.

[1:07 pm, 06/12/2021] +Joseph: Too many "strawberries" around in my opinion.....likes to flaunt their "intelligent-sounding opinions", but easily bruised and can't accept criticisms/challenge to their opinions. I fear for our future if this is going to be the people influencing it.

[1:11 pm, 06/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Don't worry.

If things are not going the right way, people will voice out.

Also we did voice out when some advocate free for all endemic like Europe. If we go along this path the whole nation will be dead like what Europe is going through now.

Our idea on Middle Path Endemic - save Singapore and now we have managed to control the Delta wave.

So don't worry, I am not afraid of cyber bullying.

I am only focus on proposing the right solution - if things are not going the right way.

Anyway, our government is very wise.

They won't be reckless.

[1:28 pm, 06/12/2021] +Boon: Dear REACH, assuming “Omicron” means there are over 10 variants now as measured by the Greek alphabet set, and we can’t and shouldn’t react in fear or from ignorance with every variants, a consistent National set of policies is important to allow us to “live with Covid and its variants” on a long term basis. Remaining vigilant would be an integral part of such policies,  including certainties of how Sg respond would with incomplete info. Cost effective test kits should be the norm asap, so that people can test more regularly as part of daily/weekly hygiene. Constant re-vaccination and long term social restrictions shouldn’t be seen as policies’ silver bullets for all as they would cause social marginalization and issues.

[1:49 pm, 06/12/2021] +Anthony: Dear Reach,

After many Covid episodes , I'm someone who stIl believe prevention was the best cause to stop the spread of virus the best method .

I was against the SIA stIl having daliy flight to South Africa for transit .it makes easier for Omicron to step into our nation

Secondly, 

Do SIA should consider stop flight to Africa for the time being, 

It will help local scentist to buy more time to get the data of Omicron means get more knowledge about the virus itself

Thirdly,

Since Covid 19 started on January 2020 ,I fully expected the road path of normal day wil soon be a history.

For now , We unlikely to go back the days we mask off & Tracetogether more places are required to check these day

Personally,

I felt troublesome various of time when we go out have to wearing Mask & Token but thinking again health issue liase in everyone

No choice but precaution needed by this time[1:58 pm, 06/12/2021] +jimmy chew: My friends told me that Omicron was detected by South Africa, they equipment are more sophicated compared to there rest. Omicron has existed but not detected until now

[2:00 pm, 06/12/2021] +Rama: What about it having been in Europe earlier than South Africa?

[2:03 pm, 06/12/2021] +Anthony: Just like Covid 19 Wuhan first France first being detected ,Who earlier😅😅

[5:23 pm, 06/12/2021] +Anthony: We should have attitude all this precaution measure should be here to stay for several years ,

Let's set til 2025 Dec 31.

However 

The senior one & Low income earner shouldn't have to pay once their token had being lost

Cos, This Wil become like Key or Wallet it will lost at anytime

As we Singaporean lives in busy daliy life, it will happen sometime in our path of life

Socal service office should take note of that 

Make it more convenient & more accessible to reach ,When those who need help from Cash to Food & Grocery etc Those Low income able to reach out

No need to check so much ,As long they earn less 

That should be all it need

We will call it real helping hand

[6:46 pm, 06/12/2021] +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

[6:59 pm, 06/12/2021] +Smiley face: 6 December, 2021 

To: Distinguished MTF and All Honorable Members 

The Loudhailer And The Broken Records - - "You know best, a case of severe flu!" 

- - anonymous 

These days perhaps the word COVID is ranked top ten key word in Google search engine? 

Comes the next big gathering of all reasons and locations in hundreds or thousands; do not be alarmed nor nervous, are we well prepared psychologically and infrastructurally ready? 

The most RECENT memories of D variant and numbers: The highest daily cases were 4248 and the lowest at 552. For daily death ranged from 2 to 16. The R ranges from 1.3 to 0.66 while the ICU usage ranges from 51.2% to 83.6%.

What's can we expect the next 30 days and longer into 2022?

Perhaps the stabilised D variant will be surpressed to a daily number of  300 to 400 cases. Given the impending O variant, the projected daily cases will hoover around 300s, a mixture of D & O variants - mutually exclusive! The ICU rate of utility will be at most 80% with pre-planned capacity towards 150%. For daily death, it will mirror the D variant range of singular to more than a dozen deaths. 

Main:

1) World Knows - - 

Death rates, Medical challenges and Socioeconomics disruptions. 

2) Government Knows - - 

Tests, Identifies, and Treatments

NCID, ICU, CCU, CCF and Home. 

3) Business Knows - - 

Operations, Mitigations and Options 

4) Community Knows - - 

Common areas, public areas and Indoor areas

5) Family Knows - - 

 Age group, Risks and Exposures 

6) Individual Knows - - 

State of health, Risks and Remedies 

Assessment of Risks - - 

Two years have passed and on going; a simple and quick assessment of covid damage and death is to ask your immediate relatives, close friends & colleagues and friends friends.

What's the number of passive and mild covid positive friends, colleagues or relatives the last 90 days?

Perhaps, a handful. 

How many Covid positive individuals admitted to hospital you know of?

Maybe 1, 2 or 3.

How many death due to natural, accident, terminate and covid related last 90 days you are aware of? 

At most 2.

What's the annual number of Sudden arrhythmic death syndrome? 

What's the damage & death from a tree falling onto your moving car in a heavy thunderstorm? 

What's the chance of fallen death in a cliffhanging job in a high rise building in progress? 

Confidently within 99%, the above occurrences are less than 1% of the entire circle of friends, colleagues and relatives regardless of state of health, risks, exposures and covid.

To conclude, regardless of health and vaccine stations, the ever EVOLVING covid variants (alpha to zeta) will emerge and coming so much so that the world will need to ADAPT and ACCEPT these changes and moves on with the least fear and worry. 

For fear and worry will add to the upward trajectory of socioeconomics challenges, this simple case HUMAN sufferings in all spectrum from intangibles like Mental health to tangibles that is Livelihoods!

After all, we have an armoury of vaccines, loads of medicines and technologies to mitigate damages and deaths - unless otherwise, why worry? 

Afterwords:

Metaphorical (car  = country and / or  variant):

In a planned outing, a convoy of 200 exotic cars moving at high speed on the autobahn.

There is a LEADER and the rest of the cars safe distancing one another, the last car is known as the SWEEPER.

In an unintended and sudden piled up accident, the most likelihood of severe damages or deaths happens usually in the FIRST to MIDDLE part of this convoy of high speeding cars.

The least hurt ones are the ending of this convoy and the sweeper, simply this lot tends to escape the SANDWICH of a road accident. 

What's the lessons? 

History:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_flu

Quotations:

"Be aware and don't be overly afraid..."

- - anonymous

“船头怕贼，船尾怕鬼……”

- - old Cantonese saying 

                - - END - -

[6:59 pm, 06/12/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

======

REACH 298 - What are your views on Singapore’s approach to prevent the Omicron variant from establishing itself in the community, in particular the pausing of the relaxation of social measures, and tightened border measures? (SK)

01 Dec 2021 (10am - 7pm)

REACH

[9:47 am, 01/12/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,

Welcome back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from * 10am to 7pm* today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind: 

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited.

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment.

4. No need to repeat your comment or in different forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time.

5. Let’s protect each other’s privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://go.gov.sg/reach-whatsapp-terms

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all.

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies.

The topic will be posted shortly.

Thank you

Megan 😊

[10:01 am, 01/12/2021] +REACH: 📢 Topic 📢 

The relaxation of social measures will be paused, and travellers entering Singapore will face stricter rules from 11.59pm on Thursday (Dec 2), as Singapore and the world work to assess the implications of the new Omicron Covid-19 variant that has already spread to at least 16 countries. These tightened restrictions will be in place for four weeks. They will be reviewed or extended if necessary, said MOH.  

💬 What are your views on Singapore’s approach to prevent the Omicron variant from establishing itself in the community, in particular the pausing of the relaxation of social measures, and tightened border measures? 

Minister Lawrence Wong said border measures are Singapore’s first line of defence against the Omicron variant. They buy the country time to shore up its other defences. 

Even so, experience has shown that Singapore cannot rely solely on such measures to stop the new variant, given that countries with very strict border regimes, such as China and New Zealand, saw Delta outbreaks, he said. 

This means that vaccination and boosters, as well as contact tracing and safe management measures remain critical, he added. 

While the current social measures, such as allowing more people to dine together in restaurants and hawker centres and also increasing group limits for gatherings, will not be dialled back for now, the task force said it will hold off on further relaxation.  

The new measures from Dec 3 include: 

▶️ All air travellers entering or transiting through Singapore must get negative pre-departure test 2 days before departure

▶️ Those entering Singapore to take PCR test upon arrival

▶️ Those on VTL flights to take additional PCR test at quick test centres on day 3 and 7 of arrival in Singapore

▶️ Weekly PCR rostered routine test for airport, border front-line staff

▶️ No home recovery for confirmed and suspected cases of Omicron variant, close contacts to be placed on 10 day quarantine at designated facilities 

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/spore-to-pause-relaxation-of-social-measures-tighten-border-restrictions-to-buy 

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/stricter-testing-for-air-travellers-what-you-need-to-know-about-singapores-border-measures 

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/no-changes-to-covid-19-local-measures-for-now-too-early-to-tell-if-tightening 

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/singapore-facing-snakes-and-ladders-situation-ong-ye-kung

------

[10:15 am, 01/12/2021] +Anthony: Hi morning, 

After 2years later We heard the same old theory again ,

Which we heard the same old stuff from Multi Taskforce said

Which boarders was the first line in our defense capability to shut down the Omicron Variant

However ,How effectively 

Can we be assured all this measure are useful to shut down this virus into our Community's

We had experienced the Delta Variant spread into our Community's even after the MOH health precaution & measure had being taken 

I wondering this new measure really useful to safeguard our nation

Lastly, i hope our nation won't be experience another Delta Variant setbacks

[10:22 am, 01/12/2021] +Smiley face: https://www.businessinsider.in/international/news/modernas-ceo-doubtful-the-current-crop-of-covid-19-vaccines-will-be-as-effective-against-omicron-variant-as-they-have-been-against-delta/articleshow/88002363.cms?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn_content_partnership

[10:23 am, 01/12/2021] +Caleb: Hope Gov pre-purchase vaccines that is against this new variant.

[10:23 am, 01/12/2021] +Caleb: For booster shot

[10:48 am, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: More money to buy new ones 😓

[10:48 am, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Becomes like yearly subscription 🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️

[11:15 am, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Omicron has infected 13 countries already in a short period of time.

It shows how fast it can spread given a chance to do so 

2. Hence restricting border measures and enforcing tests at our borders are the right move in an attempt to stop Omicron coming to our shores.

3. No matter how tight our border measures can be, one day we will see Omicron seeping through just like Delta.

Thus we must be prepared for it.

4. By freezing the current local measures is a wise thing to do - because we don't want a situation when Omicron hit home - we need to scramble to roll back our local measures - which will be more economically, socially and psychologically more damaging.

5. As for vaccination strategy, it make more sense to go into generic vaccination:-

a. 2 full vaccination jabs

b. 1 booster jab

- to protect ourselves from all strain of Covid be it original, Delta, Omicron and other strains.

And to protect ourselves against transmission, world medical community should actively and put in resources to look into nasal spray vaccines that can block all strains of Covid from infection. This is a more sound vaccination strategy.

Else human will have to face the situation whereby:-

1. 1 booster jab for Delta

2. 2 jabs for original

3. 1 booster jab for Omicron

4. 1 booster shot for alpha, 1 for gamma, 1 for beta etc. 1 for future strains.

Our arms will be full of holes and our bodies full of various types of Covid vaccines.

6. Having say so, if worst come to worst whereby only Omicron vaccines is the only way to stop Omicron, even after 3 shots - as last resort, we may have to go for our 4 shots - the Omicron shot - hopefully this won't happen.

But notice that 2 Israel doctors will 3 shots got infected by Omicron - but only display mild or no symptoms.

[11:20 am, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. S Africa experience reveal that those vaccinated only display mild or no symptoms when infected by Omicron.

2. Those more serious illness that need hospitalisation are those unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.

[11:22 am, 01/12/2021] +jimmy chew: Credit to the ministers in charge for balancing risk and return. Keep up the good balance

[11:22 am, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/covid-19-omicron-variant-vaccines-protect-south-africa-expert-2345321

COVID-19 vaccines probably protect against severe illness from Omicron variant: South African expert.

[11:22 am, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

No evidence yet that vaccines won't protect against severe disease from Omicron variant: Oxford University.                                                                                                                              https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/oxford-university-omicron-variant-vaccine-evidence-2348246

[11:22 am, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/two-israeli-doctors-infected-with-omicron-says-hospital

Two 3 jab doctors in Israel infected with Omicron, says hospital. But they develop only mild symptoms.

[11:26 am, 01/12/2021] +Joseph: I read the first few news articles on Omicron.. apparently, the SA Doctor who sounded the alarm said symptoms observed were mild even for the unvaccinated. 

My suspicions is that these unvaccinated patients had most likely caught and recovered from the Alpha and Delta variants previously. So they already have antibodies which probably explains the mild symptoms. 

If an unvaxxed - and never encountered previous CV variants - person in SG is infected, the outcome may be different.

[11:26 am, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Note that Delta variants and some other strains are still infecting the world population even though Omicron look possible to dominate and crowd out other strains.

We can't be waiting only for Omicron vaccines and not take the 3 generic vaccination shots that can protect ourselves from all strains.

Else if we don't get Omicron, we could get infected by Delta or othe strains.

[11:28 am, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

All Omicron infected are young people.

S Africa population are young people with minority are elderly.

Our population have sizeable elderly population - and the experience can be very different.

[11:58 am, 01/12/2021] +Anthony: To Ong Ye Kang minister

Maybe the best way to encourage national & any  card holder in SG to take up the Booster is make sure  effectively against 

Omicron 

Hopefully ,Our MOH expertise can prove over on that 

After that, People Wil have the trust on our Booster Shot  in another way wil increase the rate of Booster Jab  Population

As Simple As That

[0:21 pm, 01/12/2021] +Joseph: How?

[0:23 pm, 01/12/2021] +Anthony: Ball in MOH

[0:24 pm, 01/12/2021] +Joseph: How to "make sure" ?   If its possible, why no one wants to do it? 🙄

[0:24 pm, 01/12/2021] +REACH: Lab & Data result out , Let's us know

[0:25 pm, 01/12/2021] +Joseph: What is known, is already made known .. and that is .. the only sure thing, ist hat nothing is 100% sure ..

[0:28 pm, 01/12/2021] +REACH: At least prove to us at least 70 or 80% effectively,

Everyone will 乖乖 go to booster Jab for sure

[0:29 pm, 01/12/2021] +REACH: below that wil think twice

[0:30 pm, 01/12/2021] +Joseph: So... you mean let other guinea pigs do first then you do is it? 😂   so... wait until when? What sample size then good enough?

[0:31 pm, 01/12/2021] +REACH: MOH can find lots of Guinea pigs for sure ,

No worries for that😜😜

[0:37 pm, 01/12/2021] +RH: Gov, 

Keep up the good work. 

💪🏻💪🏻

It is heartening to know tt our feedback is not wasted. 

One more thing,  tho,  pls look into making ART kits cheaper  !!

Internal defence must also be reinforced .... 😉

[0:40 pm, 01/12/2021] +Joseph: For those waiting .... make sure Omicron don't find them first 😅

[1:00 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Now 19 Countries - up from 13 countries.

[1:01 pm, 01/12/2021] +Cross finger: So 0% are fully vaccinated?

[1:02 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

65% + 35% = 100%.

Based on math, look like fully vaccinated no hospitalisation.

[1:03 pm, 01/12/2021] +Cross finger: Great news for Singaporean then.

[1:04 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

It is only a small sample from S Africa.

Indicative but cannot draw a broad conclusion.

[1:10 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/toddlers-make-up-10-of-covid-19-hospital-cases-in-omicron-epicentre

Toddlers make up 10% of Covid-19 hospital cases in Omicron epicentre.

[1:10 pm, 01/12/2021] +Cross finger: Not sure I understand your point then - you posted that article and these figures.

If you can't draw a broad conclusion why did you post them?

Seems like you always post stuff that shows doom and gloom but when the exact same figures - which you posted - actually show the opposite, you query them.

[1:10 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Unvaccinated children particularly vulnerable.

[1:11 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Things keep moving, analysis keep evolving.

[1:13 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

If wait for everything to settle down - war over.

If can't be water - you can't fight a guerilla ever changing enemy.

[1:44 pm, 01/12/2021] +REACH: [Sent by Gov.sg – 1 Dec]

🦠 Containing Omicron variant risk

From 3 Dec:

🔹 All incoming travellers must show -ve result for Pre-Departure Test (PDT) taken within 2 days of departure for SG

➡️ Those entering SG, including from Cat II (non-VTL), III & IV countries, must take PCR test on arrival

➡️ VTL air travellers must also undergo ART at Quick Test Centre on Days 3 & 7 of arrival

➡️ VTL travellers via land links with Malaysia will need a PDT & on-arrival ART

🔗 More info: safetravel.ica.gov.sg  

🔍 Weekly RRT for airport & border frontline workers to resume

❌ No home recovery for Omicron variant cases

➡️ Will be conveyed to NCID

➡️ Close contacts will undergo:

- 10-day quarantine at designated facilities

- PCR tests at start & end of quarantine 

go.gov.sg/mohpr301121

[2:29 pm, 01/12/2021] +jimmy chew: I noticed that those wanting to eat at the hawker centers will be given colored dots to enter by the security guards. Aren't we spreading COVID at the entry points since they have to wait for the colored dots 🤣🤣🤣

[3:04 pm, 01/12/2021] +Anthony: Actually food court & Hawker Centre wasn't need to give away small dot sticker to patron ,

What else can be proven those patron inside this eateries

The check point already checked before entering to this premises 

Red Shirt SDA can always do the spot check  ,After all

Let's make Tracetogether   be work more useful

[3:09 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Could Omicron variant be first step towards endemic disease?

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/omicron-variant-covid-19-transmissible-evade-immunity-vaccination-2347721

[3:11 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

WHO medical experts draw the same conclusion.

Early data indicative. But cannot draw a broad conclusion.

Meeting of minds.....

🧘

[3:12 pm, 01/12/2021] +JC: 🤣

[3:19 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Limited data means… you guys think about it. This is what we thought under limited information. 

If it gets worst can’t fault us 🤣

[3:19 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Proceed with caution

[3:23 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Limited data is indicative - but offer some light through projection.

It can't conclusively determine that will be the final outcome but offer some clues that it will be a possible outcome.

As S Africa population is mainly young people - it is not representative of the world population.

For example, our population have sizeable elderly. The outcome could be different.

Thus we need more representative data size to emerge before we can do a good inference.

[3:27 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Agree with you on this point. Still too early hence the pause on the VTL. Unless we have more information. 

Treat as highly dangerous until proven otherwise.

[3:28 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Upcoming holiday will be a hard time… more mixed of people if it comes it gonna be hard to control the spread. 

Vaccine effectiveness has yet to be determined for this strain.

[3:28 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Also our population are highly vaccinated 85% and booster 26%.

This foundation spell good for Singapore.

But we cannot be overly confident - as we need more data about the capability of the new strain - before we can take more measure approach.

At this point in time, with the early indicative data - by continuing with our generic vaccination shots + the 3rd booster is a right approach.

However, we cannot be too sure about the Omicron transmission - because 2 three jabs Israel doctors see a breakthrough.

Thus a more sound vaccination strategy is to go for 3 jabs vaccination plus the need for medical community to focus their efforts on nasal spray solutions that can block all covid strains.

[3:29 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: You type really fast 😅

[3:30 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Mind think as fast as finger type.

[3:31 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Really hope that not round 3 🤦🏻‍♂️

Alpha then delta now upcoming omicron. This like never ending 😓

[3:31 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Mental well-being is gonna take a hit. Specially those rely on tourism related business

[3:32 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

I always believe in Superhuman Immunity - the 2 jabs + 1 booster - which is an antidote to the coronavirus core.

[3:33 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Our dear foreign workers will have to decide to go back or stay in the very near future. 

This is not gonna last for those having family just across the bridge

[3:33 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

But small adjustments maybe needed from time to time.

[3:33 pm, 01/12/2021] +Rama: Their debts I worry if go back before earning enough!

[3:34 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Many has gone home… but if it tighten another round really don’t know mentally they can do it or not

[3:34 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Family no more… the more money also no use.

[3:34 pm, 01/12/2021] +Rama: Not likely

[3:35 pm, 01/12/2021] +Rama: Life must still go on

[3:35 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: 2 years not seeing kids. If it was me. I don’t think I can last long either 😓

[3:46 pm, 01/12/2021] +YT: This is not how I anticipated I will learn Greek.

[3:48 pm, 01/12/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/covid-19-omicron-vaccine-who-advises-against-travel-bans-2346926

BioNTech's chief executive also struck a cautiously positive note, saying BioNTech and Pfizer's vaccine was likely to offer strong protection against severe disease from Omicron.

BioNTech Pfizer offer a more positive assessment about the current vaccines against Omicron - as opposed to Moderna CEO more pessimistic view.

[3:58 pm, 01/12/2021] +JC: the only way to move beyond the pandemic is to accelerate approval of the anti-viral oral medication (which have already proven to work). Like influenza, you can't vaccinate COVID out of existence due as the dominant strain changes every season - if we can be confident that COVID can be managed via a convenient and accessible treatment (like flu), then we can move on and get back to normal.

[3:59 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: ? Novavax?

[4:00 pm, 01/12/2021] +JC: https://www.pfizer.com/news/press-release/press-release-detail/pfizers-novel-covid-19-oral-antiviral-treatment-candidate

[4:00 pm, 01/12/2021] +JC: oral anti viral

[4:00 pm, 01/12/2021] +JC: like what Tamiflu is for influenza

[4:04 pm, 01/12/2021] +Ken Loh: Interesting strategy against virus.. all different ways that we normally do in experiments.

Didn’t know they use it for treatment eventually.

[4:36 pm, 01/12/2021] +Joseph: 👍

[6:45 pm, 01/12/2021] +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

[6:54 pm, 01/12/2021] +Kevin: Good night Megan

[6:56 pm, 01/12/2021] +Anthony: Nothing much to comment ,Until the Amicron hit our Shore

Hopefully until 2023 not yet hit our Shore

Have to wishing thinking sometime👍👍😉😉

[6:57 pm, 01/12/2021] +REACH: Hopefully, LW said sooner or later hit our Shore

Not in our reality of life😜😜

[7:00 pm, 01/12/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

=====

REACH 297 - What are your views on changes to border measures to safeguard Singapore from the Omicron variant? What precautions are you taking amid the emergence of this latest variant? (SK)

29 Nov 2021 (10am - 7pm)

REACH

[9:48 am, 29/11/2021] +REACHDear Contributors,

Welcome back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from * 10am to 7pm* today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind: 

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited.

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment.

4. No need to repeat your comment or in different forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time.

5. Let’s protect each other’s privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://go.gov.sg/reach-whatsapp-terms

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all.

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies.

The topic will be posted shortly.

Thank you

Megan 😊

[10:00 am, 29/11/2021] +REACH📢 Topic 📢 

Singapore is watching the new coronavirus variant Omicron closely and may be forced to roll back the easing up of safety measures as it moves forward to tackle the disease, said PM Lee on 28 Nov (Sun). "We are tracking this very closely. We are not sure yet, but we may well be forced to take a few steps back again, before we can take more steps forward," he said, adding that he is nevertheless confident the country will be able to live with the virus, and held up how Singaporeans have made a lot of progress in dealing with the disease over the past two years. 

💬 What are your views on changes to border measures to safeguard Singapore from the Omicron variant? What precautions are you taking amid the emergence of this latest variant? 

To reduce the risk of importing the variant to Singapore, border measures will be reviewed on several fronts. The launch of vaccinated travel lanes (VTLs) with Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be deferred until further notice due to their proximity to affected African countries, said the Ministry of Health (MOH). The VTLs to the three Middle Eastern countries were slated to begin on Dec 6. 

Further, all travellers with recent travel history to Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are no longer allowed to enter into or transit through Singapore. Returning Singapore citizens and permanent residents will have to serve a 10-day stay-home notice (SHN) at dedicated facilities. The Omicron variant was first identified in South Africa and appears to have been responsible for a sudden surge of Covid-19 cases there. Singapore has not yet detected any cases of the variant to date, said MOH. 

From 29 Nov (Mon), those travelling from Malaysia to Singapore via the land VTL will also be required to take an antigen rapid test (ART) upon arrival here, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

👉🏼 https://str.sg/3N9J 

👉🏼 https://str.sg/3NCA 

👉🏼 https://str.sg/3NRJ 

👉🏼 https://str.sg/3N9U 

👉🏼 https://str.sg/3NR4

------

[10:13 am, 29/11/2021] +linyuxiang: its very unfortunate these variants are out and about when travel is resuming... the best we can do right now is to just stick to following the measures as best as possible but at the rate we are going, vtls are set to be abolished soon

[10:13 am, 29/11/2021] +clarisse lim: Agreed

[10:15 am, 29/11/2021] +Caleb: Maybe get all to self test when they arrived on SG, like on their 5th and 7th day?

[10:15 am, 29/11/2021] +Caleb: Or on the 7th day, go Quick test center for ART

[10:26 am, 29/11/2021] +Smiley face: https://youtu.be/eDkC21Dm0Hk

[11:14 am, 29/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. This Omicron strain inherits all the characteristics and far more potent than Delta strain.

2. Barely few weeks, Delta infected 53 countries. And the moment Delta hit Singapore shore, all hell break loose, causing mass infection and trigger many measures up to now - where we barely has managed to control it.

3. Certainly, it warrant us to be more careful about this Omicron strain - and our pre-emptive move to close the borders to some countries where Omicron is spreading is appropriate.

4. Medical labs all over the world are scrambling to determine how transmissible, whether or current vaccinations can curb it, will it develop into more serious illness etc - and this will need at least 2 weeks or more to find out.

5. Hence we err on the caution side is a right move. In fact globally, all countries are taking similar move - until more data from this strain emerge - then we can take more measure approach to tackle this strain.

[11:36 am, 29/11/2021] +Boon: Dear REACH, variants should be expected, and Sg shouldn’t get into a panic - and to raise uncertainties of additional rounds of social and business restrictions - everytime a variant  is announced. Addressing this social uncertainty of on-off restrictions is important for daily lives. New “a few steps back” restrictions should only be considered after certain key metrics are breached. These key metrics should be transparent so that Sg society can better manage our own precautions and expectations. This is regardless of border measures, which are welcomed.

[11:41 am, 29/11/2021] +Laurent: Don't fear Omicron fear the manipulative governments

[11:42 am, 29/11/2021] +Boon: Restrictions impose societal costs. Hence, any new restrictions should be based on rational, transparent and consistent basis. Objective “heads up” guidance to Sg society and local businesses is very important factor for us to live with Covid in this “new normal”, and one that we are dependent on the govt. Thank you to our PM and agencies for already giving this heads up.

[11:43 am, 29/11/2021] +Jospeh: I fear fools who mistake the man-in-the-mirror for a genius, the most

[11:44 am, 29/11/2021] +Laurent: More people died from car accidents than Covid in Singapore

Did we stop driving?

[11:47 am, 29/11/2021] +RH: Very happy to hear the Gov taking immediate measures to keep our country safe...  Even gg beyond wat we hv read (ie.  deferring VTL for transitting countries) ...

Tq for the foresight  by our leaders. 👍🏻👍🏻

[11:47 am, 29/11/2021] +Jospeh: Compare apples with apples, Genius. If you want to compare car accidents with Covid infections, then you need to normalise the distance traveled and interactions on the roads between cars/vehicles against that of a person interacting with others. How much time, distance traveled and interactions resulting in an accident versus and infection.

[11:48 am, 29/11/2021] +RH: Now,  pls make ART test kits cheaper....  

😃

[11:49 am, 29/11/2021] +RH: We shd also still continue to prepare more beds in readiness for unexpected outbreak.

[11:50 am, 29/11/2021] +Jospeh: Besides, there are many restrictions associated with operating a vehicle. And yet, there are still accidents. Can you imagine a free for all when it comes to managing a pandemic?

[11:50 am, 29/11/2021] +RH: Now is the time to ramp up our readiness to deal with any sudden upsurge  ...

Not the time to relax  ...

We hv to be even more vigilant now than b4, if we r to continue "living with the virus".

[11:59 am, 29/11/2021] +JC: There's no data yet to suggest that Omnicron variant is more severe than Delta. It is potentially more transmissible and could be less responsive to current vaccines. Until there's more data, some caution is warranted but don't need to be too fearful.

[0:01 pm, 29/11/2021] +JC: My hope is that it is a much more transmissible but mild version of covid. Govt is doing e right things for now to slow e spread by managing external borders. Local relaxation shd remain in place unless there's evidence of local transmission.

[0:01 pm, 29/11/2021] +JC: Give it a few more weeks and we'll know more.

[0:01 pm, 29/11/2021] +JC: Based on how things develops in Africa and Europe.

[0:06 pm, 29/11/2021] +Jospeh: Initial data shows that the mutation in Omnicron makes it more infectious and able to evade the vaccine. Even if it is not more virulent/deadly than Delta, if the first 2 factors are true, we will see more patients requiring intensive care and/or deaths.

3 most important factors:

1. Transmissibility

2. Virulence

3. Vaccine/antibody protection

Increased transmissibility alone, can result in more deaths than increased virulence - its simple Maths, which is usually misjudged.

[0:08 pm, 29/11/2021] +Jospeh: Preparing the number hospital/ICU beds is relatively easy ... increasing the number of medically trained workers is much more challenging

[0:14 pm, 29/11/2021] +RH: Agree.

[0:25 pm, 29/11/2021] +JC: All true. Key unknown is the virulence factor and if it's a much milder disease, transmissibility and vaccine evasion won't matter as much. Early signs from SA seems to suggest that it is milder but will need more data to know for sure.

[0:36 pm, 29/11/2021] +Jospeh: I would take what SA is saying about the virulence of a mutation originating from their region, with a large pinch of salt. 

Extract from: https://www.timesofisrael.com/south-african-doctor-who-flagged-omicron-claims-variant-not-causing-serious-illness/

Angelique Coetzee, part of the team that discovered the new COVID-19 strain, says even unvaccinated patients treated by her have had mild symptoms.

In all likelihood, these patients had previously caught and recovered from the Alpha and Delta variants ie. they would have antibodies protecting them against the earlier variants ... 

I suspect the outcome/symptoms for someone who is unvaccinated and had not previously encountered the virus ie. totally unprotected, would be very different

[0:44 pm, 29/11/2021] +JC: Agree there's need for further verification from multiple sources to know for sure. I'm more hopeful as mutations typically trend towards more transmissible but less virulent variants. Until we are certain, short period of border control is probably justifiable.

[1:01 pm, 29/11/2021] +Anthony: From China to India & now South Africa ,These kind of Virus Variant can happens anywhere in our planet .

But one thing for sure if G/MOH must acknowledge of human casualties that we learnt Covid 19 especially Delta Variant.

Government can do now give every household like ARTKIT every month like 10 to 20 KIt

Which Governments & MOH can deliver not the hardest decision to be make

Secondly, make sure the price of ART KIT be more affordable before Omicron hit our Shore

Social gathering must reduce to 2pax , if Omicron arrive here once that happens

Until our Government & MOH able to cope the uncertainties.

Before reopen

[1:10 pm, 29/11/2021] +Anthony: https://youtu.be/BSTXxVfCbx0

[1:12 pm, 29/11/2021] +Anthony: 4× infectious then Delta Variant🙅‍♂️🙅‍♂️

[1:22 pm, 29/11/2021] +YT: Not "if", but "when". That is, "when omicron arrives in Singapore". For all we know, it's already here but not detected yet.

[1:23 pm, 29/11/2021] +Anthony: Sooner or later ,as lesson told us 2 years ago

[1:25 pm, 29/11/2021] +Anthony: When Wuhan announce the world January 23 2020 within 2 weeks later  SG had the first case

[2:17 pm, 29/11/2021] +REACHSingapore, Malaysia aim to expand land VTL to general travellers from mid-Dec; to start talks on sea VTL

Singapore and Malaysia are aiming to expand the land Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) scheme, which began on Monday (Nov 29), to include general travellers from mid-December, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

More https://str.sg/3Nvp

[2:49 pm, 29/11/2021] +Caleb: I think those coming back from SF countries need to be on dedicated stay home facilities for 14 days. Cannot at their own homes.

[4:41 pm, 29/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Early data indicate that Omicron can evade the anti-bodies that all current vaccines are developed to prevent covid infection due to numerous mutations of spike protein - which the anti-bodies fail to recognise.

2. There are some mutations to the T-cell region in which current vaccines are design to attack if cells are infected - due to possible failure to recognise the infected cell.

3. So Omicron through early data reveal it is not a benign one as it sounds - as most infected people are young people - not the vulnerable groups.

[5:16 pm, 29/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Our current vaccines have 2 lines of defence:-

a. Anti-bodies that enwrap the covid through attachment to their spike protein.

b. T-cell that attack the infected cell if it evade the anti-bodies.

2. Delta and other strains  may be able to bypass anti-bodies but will be attack by T-cell and clear the bodies of Covid.

3. But Omicron seems to be able to bypass the 2 line of defence which the vaccines erected.

[6:19 pm, 29/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/covid-19-variant-omicron-poses-very-high-global-risk-countries-must-prepare-who 

Covid-19 variant Omicron poses 'very high' global risk, countries must prepare: WHO.

Increasing cases, regardless of a change in severity, may pose overwhelming demands on healthcare systems and may lead to increased morbidity and mortality. The impact on vulnerable populations would be substantial, particularly in countries with low vaccination coverage,” it added.

[6:20 pm, 29/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Overall, there are considerable uncertainties in the magnitude of immune escape potential of Omicron.” More data was expected in coming weeks.

“Covid-19 cases and infections are expected in vaccinated persons, albeit in a small and predictable proportion”, it added.

[6:23 pm, 29/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. WHO initial assessment - Omicron pose a very high global

risk - particularly to the vulnerable groups and the unvaccinated group.

2. Vaccination with 2 jabs will still see breakthrough. But vaccination will ward off serious illness and death.

3. Booster is still touted as a better protection against Omicron as it currently stands.

[6:45 pm, 29/11/2021] +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

[6:59 pm, 29/11/2021] +Smiley face: 29 November, 2021 

To: Distinguished MTF and All Honorable Members 

"Singapore cannot claim to have better doctors and scientists or better healthcare than the United States or Europe." 

- - PM Lee

How:

Is the ART sensitive to capture this O?

How about PCR? 

Relook all protocols - medical, social, economics and ports of entry (air/sea/land)? 

Simply there is no quick way out of this latest covid situation, one needs to be cautiously optimistic going into the next 3 to 4 months. 

Going Forward:

In order to further the understanding of covid, causation and future scenarios, there is a need to dive deeper into cell dynamics - a cell, inside a cell, deeper and its relativity & activity. 

Creating a multi-discipline team of TOP WORLD CLASS medical and science experts to include the following disciplines with two experts from each of these 7.

Microbiology

Epidemiology

Immunology

Virology

Quantum biology

Evolutionary biology

Mathematician 

News:

Trust is the 'decisive difference' in S'pore's response to Covid-19: PM Lee 

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/trust-is-the-decisive-difference-in-spores-response-to-covid-19-says-pm-lee-at-pap

https://youtu.be/eDkC21Dm0Hkhttps

//m.timesofindia.com/world/rest-of-world/south-african-medical-association-says-omicron-variant-causes-mild-disease/articleshow/87949404.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst

[7:00 pm, 29/11/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

=====

REACH 296 - What are your views on current restrictions as Singapore resumes its transition to COVID-19 resilience, in particular the expansion of the vaccination-differentiated measures?

If you are unvaccinated (medically eligible), what are your reasons for not taking the vaccination? How can we encourage the unvaccinated to be vaccinated? (SK)

26 Nov 2021 (10am - 7pm)

REACH

[9:51 am, 26/11/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,

Welcome back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from 10am to 7pm today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind: 

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited.

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment.

4. No need to repeat your comment or in different forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time.

5. Let’s protect each other’s privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://go.gov.sg/reach-whatsapp-terms

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all.

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies.

The topic will be posted shortly.

Thank you

Megan 😊

[10:00 am, 26/11/2021] +REACH: 📢 Topic 📢 

Several measures announced at the Multi-ministry Taskforce (MTF) Press Conference (20 Nov) kicked in this week, as Singapore resumes its transition to COVID-19 resilience in a careful and calibrated manner. Groups of up to 5 fully vaccinated people are now allowed to dine out together at food and beverage (F&B) establishments, even if they are not from the same household. Such groups of up to 5 persons are also be allowed to dine-in at hawker centres and coffee shops where full Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) checks have been implemented.

To protect unvaccinated individuals from getting infected and becoming severely ill, the MTF also announced the expansion of VDS to more settings and activities, including in all NLB Libraries and selected activities in community clubs/centres under People’s Association from 1 Dec. From 1 January 2022, unvaccinated individuals will also not be able to show a negative Pre-Event Test result to enter a vaccinated-differentiated setting, in lieu of being fully vaccinated. 

💬 What are your views on current restrictions as Singapore resumes its transition to COVID-19 resilience, in particular the expansion of the vaccination-differentiated measures?

If you are unvaccinated (medically eligible), what are your reasons for not taking the vaccination? How can we encourage the unvaccinated to be vaccinated?

A concession will be extended to those who are medically ineligible for vaccination from Dec 1, so that they are able to access premises or participate in activities where vaccination-differentiated measures are imposed.

"While we have extended a concession to those who are medically ineligible to be able to dine in, enter malls and participate in activities where VDS is required, they remain unvaccinated and their risk of becoming infected with Covid-19 and/or becoming severely ill remains real and very high," MOH stressed.

"We strongly encourage these individuals to minimise such activities and to use this concession judiciously."

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/dining-in-and-social-gathering-capacity-increased-to-5-what-you-need-to-know-about-covid

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/entry-to-libraries-participation-in-some-community-centre-activities-restricted-to

👉🏼 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/those-medically-ineligible-for-covid-19-vaccines-to-get-concessions-from-dec-1-if-they

-------

[10:21 am, 26/11/2021] +WJ: some of them are misinformed and can't differenciate fake news. We need someone to talk to them in Chinese, how to identify fake new.

[10:24 am, 26/11/2021] +WJ: Those unvaccinated are usually misinformed.

[10:25 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: MOH should emphasize that the VDMs r not meant to be punitive but rather required to protect unvax individuals from severe disease and health system from overload. It should highlight that widespread asymptomatic infection is going to b expected and the norm in the coming months, so that unvax can understand the threat to their well being.

[10:26 am, 26/11/2021] +Caleb: Good that is still default WFH. 

Hope Gov can quickly approve novavax under the National Vax program and can take it as booster.

[10:27 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: I would also urge MOH to accelerate approval of the oral antivirals so that unvax may have another option outside of vaccines.

[10:30 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: WFH should not be the default any further. This has significant negative impact on various aspects of the economy. With such high vax rates and the possibility of allowing only vax workers to return to the office, WFH as default should stop, there's no other reason to do so.

[10:33 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: WFH affect the economy? any proof?

[10:36 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: if it really so bad why big companies like facebook is allowing their staff to wfh permanently?Remote work has been shown to increase worker productivity

[10:37 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: I fully support working from home. It has more positive impact than negative.

[10:38 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: or Hybrid but not going back fully.

[10:38 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: For one good reason, Covid still spread. Vax or Unvax.

[10:39 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: https://www.businessinsider.com/benefits-remote-work-changing-us-economy-for-the-better-upwork-2021-3

[10:41 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Hybrid is fine but to make WFH default is not the same as allowing hybrid work arrangements. Whether to go hybrid should b a decision made by companies, not govt.

[10:41 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: And not you too.

[10:41 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Obviously not me.

[10:41 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Let e companies decide

[10:42 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: That's all I'm saying

[10:43 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: and a lot of decision can be made by the govt... companies that operate in different countries has to work around the law and regulation of the country. and for the country to have default WFH is for the good of its people.

[10:43 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Btw your the article you've shared isn't proof... U can Google more to find other views and hopefully u are smart enough to figure out which are the credible sources.

[10:46 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: A simple reality. In Singapore, our wages r much higher than many other countries. With digital enabled work becoming the norm, I guarantee u that MNCs will off shore more work to cheaper labor to other countries. If u prefer to WFH to slack, b ready that ur job won't b safe for too long.

[10:46 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Maybe u work for govt then ur job is safe. For those of us in e private sector, this is reality.

[10:46 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: maybe you slack while you WFH but many is really working.. and who says people working in office doesn't slack?

[10:48 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: There is a lot of factor when they decide to invest or not. Even if they are deciding a local office, they can choose another country if they need to too.

[10:48 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: When u make something default, u force everyone to do e same thing when every companies needs and workforce is different.

[10:48 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: Govt will know what to do

[10:48 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Lift that restriction and let companies decide.

[10:48 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: No they don't

[10:48 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Govt can't make every decision

[10:48 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: then you be the govt

[10:49 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: They shouldn't

[10:49 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: U r silly

[10:49 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Don't love WFH too much

[10:49 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: U might lose ur job

[10:49 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: ya you are very smart

[10:49 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Yep def more than u

[10:50 am, 26/11/2021] +Vana: +1

[10:51 am, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: hope you don't lose your job too. We have to adapt to change... if we cannot adapt we will lose out and fall behind. move forward and be the change

[10:51 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: 🤷‍♂️

[10:52 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Adapting means delivering value to what ur employers want. Not wishing ur govt force ur employers to let u WFH.

[10:52 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: 🤦‍♂️

[10:52 am, 26/11/2021] +Ken Loh: When WFH becomes possible we start competing overseas for position… double edge sword so need to be prepared

[10:53 am, 26/11/2021] +Ken Loh: When your pay is it worth it becomes more easily compared… so must be high value providing, so company consider keeping you.. than rather outsource it to cheaper counterparts

[10:54 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Employers will make the financially beneficial decision for them. If they believe WFH default is impacting productivity and collaboration, and they see many other countries not impose WFH as default... Then we give them one more reason to offshore.

[10:57 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: This is on top of e lost businesses to retailers and FnB as offices empty out.

[11:08 am, 26/11/2021] +JC: Finally, WFH as default is a public health policy by the govt to control covid when vax rates r not high enough and hence willing to trade off the negative economic effect for public health well being. We r now one of the most vax nation in the world. Govt must b careful not to over extend this policy. I work in a major MNC and I know senior leaders r looking closely at these govt measures as they decide on how they deploy their manpower globally. Singapore govt has the benefit of doubt due to its long track record of good governance but we cannot b too relaxed and employers appetite for these measures won't last forever.

[11:20 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/german-covid-19-deaths-pass-100000-with-infections-still-spiking

Germany's Covid-19 deaths pass 100,000 with infections still spiking.

Hospitals are overwhelmed and force to look at other EU countries to accommodate the patients.

Europe failed free for all endemic living with covid policy - trigger serious consequences.

It inflict more damages to the economy and further delay its recovery.

Many EU countries face similar predicament.

[11:20 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Singapore could avoid a Europe-style Covid resurgence, Ong says.

With our unique "Middle Path Endemic".

https://sg.yahoo.com/finance/news/singapore-could-avoid-a-europe-style-covid-resurgence-ong-says-022311239.html

[11:22 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/total-covid-19-deaths-europe-could-exceed-22-million-march-who-2333871

Total COVID-19 deaths in Europe could exceed 2.2 million by March: WHO.

Europe free for all endemic living with covid is a total failure.

[11:22 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

https://sg.news.yahoo.com/czechs-declare-state-emergency-impose-170907507.html

Czechs declare state of emergency, impose new virus measures.

[11:22 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://news.google.com/articles/CBMia2h0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRoZWd1YXJkaWFuLmNvbS93b3JsZC8yMDIxL25vdi8yNS9ldS1tb3Zlcy10by1wbGFjZS1jb3ZpZC1ib29zdGVyLWphYnMtYXQtaGVhcnQtb2YtdHJhdmVsLXJ1bGVz0gFraHR0cHM6Ly9hbXAudGhlZ3VhcmRpYW4uY29tL3dvcmxkLzIwMjEvbm92LzI1L2V1LW1vdmVzLXRvLXBsYWNlLWNvdmlkLWJvb3N0ZXItamFicy1hdC1oZWFydC1vZi10cmF2ZWwtcnVsZXM?hl=en-SG&gl=SG&ceid=SG%3Aen

EU moves to place Covid booster jabs at heart of travel rules.

Booster shot is now the de-facto weapon to fight the Delta wave.

[11:22 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Yes. Look like now EU and USA are forcing people to take booster.

I think Israel and Singapore have proven booster shot do curb the Delta wave.

 

[11:28 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: UK bans travel from south africa over new variant that is worse than Delta. Are we doing the same?

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-59424269.amp

[11:29 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: And HK also has this new variant

[11:30 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Singapore unique "Middle Path Endemic living with the covid" is seeing success in curbing the current new Delta wave.

2. Whereas Europe free for all endemic living with the covid is a total failure.

[11:30 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: This new variant has different spike and hence can vaccines may not be effective.

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-59418127

[11:32 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: Hope the new variant does not enter sg

[11:32 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

3. As we move forward, we have to adopt a step by step calibrated opening - by watching important indicators like weekly infection ratio, infection number, hospitals number, serious illness number, ICU number and death rate.

4. Then we should open step by step as cater for in our unique Middle Path Endemic.

[11:33 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Monitor closely and do calibrated opening.

Middle path endemic allow opening and closing to slide up and down.

[11:36 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Also vaccination and Booster can prevent development of serious illness from covid even with new mutated strains.

But though may not be totally effective in using anti-bodies to enwrap and stop new mutated strains from transmission.

Hence, mask, social distancing and calibrated opening need to be in place.

[11:37 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: Hope the gov takes measures now for the new variant. If not if it creeps through with our dense population, the infection rate may surge exponentially

[11:37 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: Not this new mutated strain which is why UK took steps to ban travel already

[11:37 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Agree.

I think government will be watching the new strain carefully and adjust the measures up and down.

[11:38 am, 26/11/2021] +REACH: 10 more coffee shops and 1 hawker centre allow 5 vaccinated people to eat together

Another hawker centre and 10 more coffee shops have opened to groups of up to five vaccinated people to dine in.

Another 20 hawker centres are slated to do so by next Monday (Nov 29), with entry and vaccination checks in place.

More: https://str.sg/3NaY

[11:38 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: And sg cannot afford to be guinea pig bed to test for the death rate of this new highly mutated strain.

[11:39 am, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: So best is to curb the travel borders first.

[11:42 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Ramp up vaccination among the unvaccinated to cover the total population.

Move the percentage of booster from 24% currently to at least 50% and above.

Look at new vaccines that target core covid gene that cannot be mutated eg. T-cell vaccines.

Look at nasal spray vaccines that block all strain covid transmission.

Lastly cover the children vaccination.

[11:52 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Mutated strains is an ever evolving process for covid or other virus - it never stop.

The only defence is:-

1. Vaccination

2. Booster

3. Mask

4. Social distancing measures

Then endemic like mild flu is possible.

We have not reached this stage yet.

Hence calibrated Middle Path Endemic to adjust up and down the opening of measures will be necessary.

Once the total population are fully vaccinated + booster, with additional precaution like mask and some social distancing measures - we can still live normally without the fear of new mutated strains.

[11:55 am, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

New mutated strains will only affect the unvaccinated or the vaccinated where immunity has wane.

Hence full vaccination + booster will effectively plug this gap.

And mutated strains no longer pose a major threat - and the population can live with the mild flu like symptoms.

[1:26 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. As scientific evidence stand as of now :-

a. Full vaccination is the main tool to curb covid

b. Booster (is touted as the 3-jab full vaccination like Hep B) - when the immunity wane after 6 months.

2. Hence vaccination should be our main focus to get the total population vaccinated.

3. Empirical evidence has shown that unvaccinated, partially vaccinated and vaccinated where immunity has wane - made up most if not all the serious illness and death.

4. Hence, full vaccination and booster - should be our main tool to curb covid - Delta or new strains.

5. Hence vaccination-differentiated measures and the expanded measures is strongly supported to get more unvaccinated or immuno-compromised vaccinated to get their vaccination and booster.

6. Israel experience and Singapore experience shows that the 3 booster shot - effectively control the rage of the Delta wave and we are seeing improvement in the weekly infection ratio, infection number, hospitalisation number, serious cases and death.

7. Hence we should continue to encourage the total population to get themselves vaccinated and to get their booster upon reaching 6 months for those who are eligible.

8. Focus in getting the unvaccinated children to get their vaccination once children trial is over.

9. This is the only way for Singapore to emerge from the covid - Delta or future strains - and transit into a "Middle Path Endemic" living with the covid - with some measures in place eg. mask or some social distancing measures in place as circumstances deem fit.

10. Meanwhile, we need to look into :-

a. Nasal spray vaccines or drugs that can block all form or strains of covid.

b. T-cell vaccines that target the covid core gene (irregardless of how the covid mutate)

c. Anti-viral drug or monoclonal anti-bodies treatment drug - that can treat all strain covid.

11. I don't think we need to panic even when new transmissible covid strain emerge - if we all the above - as long as total population are fully vaccinated with booster ---- we will have acquired "Superhuman Immunity" --- and we can accept covid, new or old strain living with us as endemic mild flu-like virus.

12. Our current Middle Path Endemic step-by-step calibrated opening up of measures are sound - with safeguard in place, including step-by-step opening of borders - with vaccination and covid test in place.

13. We can slide up or down our social distancing measures under the Middle Path Endemic as new circumstances evolved - as our total population is acquiring "Superhuman Immunity" - through Vaccinated + Booster Immunity and some through Vaccinated + Infection Immunity --- without major catastrophe consequences like Europe - with calibrated measures.

14. I think we will be able to see the "Light of the Tunnel" - if we persevere along the Middle Path Endemic measures - especially when the total population including children get fully vaccinated + booster shot for eligible.

[2:00 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: +1

[2:07 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: Hope the gov wl look ahead and make preparations. 

While we ease up on the restrictions, we also need to keep a close eye on the sitn. 

Dun repeat wat happened last year when we Unwittingly let the Delta variant in. 

If we hv to suddenly tighten or close our borders,  based on Intel,  then do it --- Don't Give  ??  Days notice to close --- tt is the biggest mistake to make!!  

Just do it,  to protect our popn!

As the Chinese saying goes,  " Do First,  Talk Later! "

We r fighting a war...  Now is just the lull period.  

We can take a moment to breathe,  but let's not let our guard down.

[2:12 pm, 26/11/2021] +Caleb: From Saturday, all long-term pass holders and short-term visitors with recent travel history to Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe in the last 2 weeks will not be allowed entry into Singapore nor transit through it.

There are no reported cases of the new Covid-19 variant here. https://str.sg/3NR3

[2:29 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[2:42 pm, 26/11/2021] +Joseph: replace "going to" with "might"

[2:42 pm, 26/11/2021] +Laurent: nope 

FEAR is killing us already

[2:43 pm, 26/11/2021] +Speak, hear, do no evil: The variant .1519 has already spread to Hong Kong and …, 

something should be done so that it does not slip in from these countries

[2:43 pm, 26/11/2021] +BL: I support the choice of WFH, but for many who don't have a suitable environment it is very stressful and hard to be productive.

[2:44 pm, 26/11/2021] +BL: Maybe it should be a decision for the employee, rather than the company?

[2:44 pm, 26/11/2021] +Joseph: a healthy respect of FEAR is what keeps people alive

[2:45 pm, 26/11/2021] +BL: Exactly.  Performance and Trust are the measure of a good working relationship between employer and employee. Measure not by who is in the office.

[2:45 pm, 26/11/2021] +Caleb: MOH need to quickly pre-purchase all the medicines for COVID too. With moving towards endemic

[2:45 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: Gov, 

Pls also extend the same restrictions to Hongkong,  now tt ther is news of spread ther as well. 

Dun wait.  

Tq.

[2:46 pm, 26/11/2021] +Caleb: Only 1 in Hong Kong right?

[2:46 pm, 26/11/2021] +Caleb: Not yet spread in HK?

[2:48 pm, 26/11/2021] +Speak, hear, do no evil: It could be multiplying silently

[2:48 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: Dunno. 

Better to err on side of caution than hv it start spreading --> too late by then. 

We hv only just opened up our borders to M'sia. 

Dun wanna see tt close just so soon. 

Many families hv bn separated for almost 2 years...

[2:49 pm, 26/11/2021] +Vivian: BBC News - Covid: New heavily mutated variant B.1.1.529 in South Africa raises concern

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-59418127

[2:50 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: We must think of the far reaching impact if we kena again. 

Becoz of Delta,  we hv had to close for more than a year. 

If this new strain is more potent than Delta, Wat and how long do u think it wl affect us? 

No need for discussion on WFH as default...  May as well kiss our jobs goodbye if tt happens  ...

[2:52 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: And the gov may run out $$$ to support us & biz,  to tide thru the next wave...  

And so on...

[2:52 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: ** run out of $$

[2:53 pm, 26/11/2021] +RH: Tt wud cause us to plunge into recession.  

Sori,  m just playing the devil here.

[3:04 pm, 26/11/2021] +Elena Woo: 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[4:03 pm, 26/11/2021] +Cross finger: I don't understand why long term pass holders cannot also enter Singapore and do quarantine - same as citizens and PRs.  Just because you're an expat doesn't mean that singapore is not your home. Amongst my expat friends the uncertainty that this creates is very worrying - you can go on a business trip and find you cannot get home. During circuit breaker I know many people where one person got stranded outside Singapore whilst  the family was here - in one case the mother got stuck in Hong Kong for three months and her husband and two year old baby were here.

[4:07 pm, 26/11/2021] +BL: Yes, although Singapore has a legal right to do this under international law, I don't understand the justification.

[4:41 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: FEAR is the Mind Killer...

[4:44 pm, 26/11/2021] +Laurent: And the government is spreading it

[4:46 pm, 26/11/2021] +Rama: 😱😳😨🤦‍♀️

[4:47 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: Media is spreading it (cos it's sensationalistic)... our govt is typically quite conservative, so sometimes the people will follow and scare themselves.

[4:47 pm, 26/11/2021] +Rama: Is our local media towing a neutral line in reporting and fact finding the facts!?

[4:47 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: actually there's no data yet to know how severe this new variant will be. It COULD be more transmissible. It could be less.

[4:48 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: all media are bias towards sensationalistic reporting unfortunately... especially in the internet age.

[4:48 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: need to capture attention to earn advertising money.

[4:49 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: nobody will click on the article that says - "XXX number of COVID variants discovered since beginning of 2021, 99.9% of them do nothing"

[4:50 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: but everyone gonna click on "New variant will KILL everyone!"

[4:50 pm, 26/11/2021] +JC: the truth is somewhere in between

[5:27 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Singapore government pre-emptive move to close borders with those few countries with the new strain is an appropriate move.

2. This strain display a transmissible dominant strain (similar to Delta if not worst) - as seen how fast it spread among the few countries.

3. While we wait for WHO  emergency meetings as well as more data emerging from this new strains.

4. Delta variants experience that we have learn from - certainly merit our pre-emptive move on this new strain - while we can loosen or tighten further as we have more information on this strain.

[5:27 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/25/who-calls-special-meeting-to-discuss-new-covid-variant-from-south-africa-with-large-number-of-mutations.html

WHO calls special meeting to discuss new Covid variant found in South Africa with 'a large number of mutations'.

[6:11 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

EU, UK, Japan and Singapore order border close to countries with new strain.

WHO confer emergency meetings to discuss move on new strains.

New strains has all the characteristics that can become the dominant strain (similar to Delta or out surge Delta).

[6:11 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3157480/europe-scrambles-boost-covid-19-defences-after-new-variant

Europe scrambles to boost Covid-19 defences after new variant detected in South Africa

[6:17 pm, 26/11/2021] +Cross finger: This story is almost a year old.

[6:18 pm, 26/11/2021] +Cross finger: And so is this one.

[6:18 pm, 26/11/2021] +Cross finger: What point are you trying to make?

[6:20 pm, 26/11/2021] +Smiley face: https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamhaseltine/2021/11/12/spike-and-nucleocapsid-protein-mutations-in-tanzanian-and-ugandan-strains-of-sars-cov-2-demand-attention/

[6:23 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Oops attached the wrong news

[6:25 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/britain-flags-concern-over-new-coronavirus-variant-detected-in-south-africa

Britain stops some flights from Africa over new Covid-19 variant worries

[6:28 pm, 26/11/2021] ☸️  Danny 心: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/japan-tighten-border-controls-s-africa-others-new-virus-variant-jiji-2021-11-26/

Europe and Asia alarm by new strains tighten border control.

[6:28 pm, 26/11/2021] +Cross finger: It is worth noting that:

- in the case of the article you posted about Japan, it said that the ban does not apply to "Japanese nationals and foreigners living in Japan will be permitted to return to the country." 

- in the case of the article you posted about France etc is says that the ban does not apply to: "French or EU citizens, those with residency rights there or business travellers".

[my emphasis]

[6:30 pm, 26/11/2021] +Cross finger: All people living in Singapore should be able to return to their families - after quarantine of course.

[6:31 pm, 26/11/2021] +Rama: Yes

[6:46 pm, 26/11/2021] +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

[6:47 pm, 26/11/2021] +Kevin: Good night Megan

[6:59 pm, 26/11/2021] +REACH: Dear Contributors,

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

=====