Measures to Ensure Supply Chain Resilience for Over-the-counter Medication in Retail Pharmacies

39 Dr Tan Wu Meng asked the Minister for Health (a) what measures are in place to ensure supply chain resilience for over-the-counter medication to treat fever, cough and cold in retail pharmacies; and (b) whether the reported supply shortages at some retailers have affected the implementation of current policy on encouraging persons with COVID-19 with mild symptoms to self-isolate and recover at home.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Ministry of Health (MOH) maintains a stockpile of medication to treat fever, cough and cold from multiple countries and suppliers. These supplies can be released to retailers in the event of a widespread shortage.

When COVID-19 cases were high, there had been shortages reported for specific brands of these medications at certain retail outlets. These shortages are temporary, as retailers are bringing in additional supplies. Alternative brands remain available for these medications.