- The Ministry of Health (MOH) will launch updated Covid-19 monovalent vaccines from 30 Oct, and prior Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty and Moderna/Spikevax vaccines will be phased out by 20 Nov.
- The updated vaccines have been confirmed to offer a stronger immune response against current and emerging strains, offering improved protection against Covid-19.
- Additional doses are crucial, particularly for those at greatest risk, including people aged 60 years and above, and will enhance protection against the virus, due to be administered around 2023 or 2024.
The Straits Times reports that the rollout will be progressively implemented based on the availability of shipments.
Ongoing Upgrades and Efficacy
The maritime city-state’s battle against Covid-19 enters a new phase, with updated monovalent vaccines entering the fray.
A blip on the testing radar detected a new iteration of the deadly virus, necessitating the move to updated vaccines.
The Singaporean Ministry of Health (MOH) confirmed the rollout of the updated vaccines, starting at the end of October and replacing prior formulations by mid-November.
These updated vaccines are vital in the current climate, with health experts confirming a stronger immune response to undesired strains.
It means improved protection against Covid-19.
This change is crucial.
Time is of the essence.
The Safety of Monovalent Vaccines
Vaccination remains our primary defence against Covid-19.
It continues to be safe and effective.
It’s simple.
The number of serious adverse events for the recently introduced mRNA vaccines is low.
Reporting rates of adverse events are rare.
And the incidence of myocarditis linked with the vaccines, though still monitored, is also rare.
This is comforting and crucial information.
For the public and their confidence in the vaccination process.
It’s a safety net.
Vaccination Accessibility and Timings
MOH will roll out the updated monovalent vaccines based on the following schedule:
- 30 Oct 3023 – Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty for all individuals aged 5 years and above;
- 14 Nov 2023 – Moderna/Spikevax for all individuals aged 6 months and above
- 20 Nov 2023 – Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty for children aged 6 months to 4 years.
The MOH will extend the operating hours of all Joint Testing and Vaccination Centres on Saturdays.
From 9am to 7pm between 4 November 2023 and 2 December 2023.
This extension is to accommodate higher demand for the updated vaccines.
Singaporeans can walk into any centre, clinic, or polyclinic for their vaccination.
They could also make a booking online or directly call the clinic for an appointment.
It’s easy and quick.
Convenience is key here.
Additional Doses: A Potential Lifesaver
The additional vaccine dose planned for 2023 or 2024 serves a dual purpose.
It enhances protection against severe disease.
And it’s particularly recommended for those at greatest risk, such as people aged 60 years and above.
It’s a must.
Even healthcare workers and caregivers of medically vulnerable individuals are encouraged to get this extra dose.
While Covid-19 may be mild in healthy, previously vaccinated individuals, an additional dose enhances protection against severe disease in the medically vulnerable and elderly.
It’s an added layer of security.
Experts Voice Their Support
The Expert Committee on Covid-19 Vaccination (EC19V) supports the updated vaccines.
And recommendations for additional doses.
A strong endorsement.
And a proactive strategy against an ever-evolving enemy.
It’s a wise move.
The Bottom Line
It’s been a challenging fight against Covid-19.
But there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
The planned rollout.
The enhanced protection.
The additional doses.
All these point to a powerful, proactive defensive strategy.
But it remains vitally important for Singaporeans to do their part.
That includes getting vaccinated promptly and observing all necessary precautions.
It’s a community activity for self-preservation.
So, how ready are you for your vaccination date?
Remember, every Singaporean’s contribution counts during this ongoing battle against Covid-19.
