Stricter measures in light of community clusters: 2 social interaction limit

Stricter measures in response to community clusters

In light of the recent increase in the number of community cases, some of which are unlinked, resulting in the formation of community clusters, stricter measures will be introduced, MOH said in a statement.

Social interactions: no more than 2

All individuals should limit their overall number of social interactions, to not more than two per day, whether visiting another household or meeting with friends/ family members in a public place.

To avoid an uncontrolled resurgence of community cases, everyone should avoid going to crowded places and stay home where possible. You should also keep your groups as small as possible and stick to a regular group of contacts. You should also stay home when you are unwell and see a doctor to get tested, and be vaccinated when it is offered to you.

Speaking at a press conference, co-chair of the taskforce Lawrence acknowledged that the restrictions would create inconvenience, especially given several public holidays coming up in May, but urged Singaporeans to cooperate and scale back their social activities.

This is the only way to slow the spread of the virus in the community, he said, adding that Singaporeans should also be mentally prepared that further tightening may take place, should the situation worsen.

Work-from-home where possible

Employers should allow their staff to work from home if they are able to do so. For employees who need to return to the workplace, employers should stagger their start times, and implement flexible working hours.

Social gatherings at the workplace should also be avoided.

Public agencies working in the Novena area such as the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore will be asking their staff to work from home where possible. These measures help lower transmission risks by reducing interactions at the workplace and in public places, including public transport, the statement said.

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Additional measures to stem transmission of community clusters

The following additional measures will be implemented from 1 through 14 May 2021 (unless otherwise stated):

  • The occupancy limit for malls and large standalone stores will be reduced to one person per 10 sqm of Gross Floor Area (GFA), from one person per 8 sqm of GFA.
  • The odd and even date restrictions on Sundays will be reinstated for popular malls (Lucky Plaza, Peninsula Plaza).
  • Outdoor barbecue pits and campsites will be closed to the public. This includes barbecue pits in parks, HDB estates, condominiums and country clubs.
  • With effect from 7 May 2021 through 14 May 2021, all attractions that have received MTI’s prior approval will be permitted to operate at 50% operating capacity, a reduction from 65%.

The recent community clusters show that the risks of a COVID-19 outbreak remains high even as we press ahead with vaccination. MOH said they will be stepping up enforcement efforts and will not hesitate to take action against breaches of the rules.

“We will continue to review the current suite of measures and will take further steps to tighten and significantly reduce the level of interactions in the community should transmission persist,” the statement said.

“We seek the cooperation of all Singaporeans to remain unified and disciplined in the fight against COVID-19. Together, we can look forward to a safer and healthier Singapore.”

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