New COVID-19 Infections of XXB Variant Strain and Measures to Contain Its Spread
Ministry of HealthSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the prevalence of the COVID-19 XBB variant and containment measures, as raised by Mr Mohd Fahmi Aliman. Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung noted that XBB caused 80% of infections in late October 2022, but high vaccination rates and public responsibility prevented the need for new safe management measures. Although the Multi-Ministry Task Force prepared for additional restrictions like indoor masking, case numbers peaked quickly, allowing the focus to remain on personal responsibility and current vaccinations. To safeguard healthcare workers, the bivalent Moderna/Spikevax vaccine was introduced on 25 October 2022, alongside mandatory personal protective equipment and mask-wearing in medical settings. These measures, combined with continued infection prevention protocols, ensure healthcare workers are protected while managing the ongoing spread of the variant.
Transcript
57 Mr Mohd Fahmi Aliman asked the Minister for Health (a) how many new COVID-19 infections are of the XXB variant strain; (b) what measures has the Ministry espoused to contain the spread of XBB within the community; and (c) whether additional precautions will be taken to protect healthcare workers from the spread of the COVID-19 XBB variant.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: XBB accounted for around 80% of local cases in the week of 24 to 30 October.
We have weathered the wave without the need to reinstate safe management measures (SMMs). This is given the protection provided through vaccination and also safe recovery from infections.
Further, Singaporeans did their part in exercising personal and social responsibility, in taking active steps to mask up, test and self-isolate when unwell.
The Multi-Ministry Task Force (MTF) was ready to impose additional SMMs, such as mandatory wearing of masks indoors, or an appropriate level of Vaccination Differentiated SMMs. In the end, there was no need to do so as the infection numbers peaked and turned the corner quickly and earlier than expected.
While case numbers are coming down, XBB continues to spread. We cannot be complacent. So, please continue to exercise personal and social responsibility and keep your vaccinations up to date to prevent against severe illness.
To further protect our healthcare workers, since 25 October 2022, MOH has extended the bivalent Moderna/Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine to eligible healthcare workers in the public and private sectors. Healthcare settings will also continue to apply infection prevention and control measures, including the use of personal protective equipment and mask-wearing requirements.