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Temperature screening in public places will no longer be required by the Ministry of Health (MOH) from tomorrow, Aug. 19.

This was first announced on Aug. 6 by MOH.

The ministry explained that the removal of the temperature screening requirement was due to the following factors:

• High levels of vaccine coverage among Singapore's population: This means that the risk of transmission among vaccinated individuals, and disease severity in vaccinated but infected persons, are likely to be substantially lower.
• Increased surveillance measures in higher risk settings: MOH said that it has the ability to pick up infections earlier through increased surveillance measures including self-test antigen rapid test (ART) kits and rostered routine testing with fast and easy tests (FETs) in higher risk settings.

Following MOH's statement, government entities who regulate various sectors have also began to update their advisories.

For example, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has updated its advisory for retail establishments.

The advisory states that all malls, large standalone stores, supermarkets and retail establishments providing personal care and beauty services will no longer need to conduct temperature screening from Aug. 19.

However, these establishments "can continue with the checks for visible symptoms for customers," according to STB's advisory.

And those with fever or other flu-like symptoms can still be refused entry at public places, as performing SafeEntry check-in requires a declaration that the person(s) checking in are free of such symptoms.

"It is important to continue exercising good health-seeking behaviour when one is unwell by seeking care as soon as possible, using a mask and avoiding crowded places," MOH said.

Other changes from Aug. 19

It was also announced on Aug. 6 that up to 50 per cent of employees who are currently working from home could be allowed to return to the workplace from Aug. 19.

Other adjustments said to be taking effect from Aug. 19 include a further increase in event sizes and capacity, such as permitting up to 1,000 fully vaccinated attendees at cinemas, congregational services, marriage solemnisations, and other large events, if the Covid-19 situation remains under control.

Further easing to be considered when 80 per cent receive full vaccination regime

MOH previously said that when at least 80 per cent of the population have received their full vaccination regimens, Singapore will be able to take the next steps towards opening up its economy, social activities, and travel.

The ministry said:

"At that stage, we can consider further easing of restrictions, while continuing with differentiated safe distancing rules for vaccinated and unvaccinated persons. We will make these moves in a controlled manner, synchronising the easing with our vaccination coverage, and seeking to minimise the incidence of severe illness and death."

76 per cent of the population has completed their full regimen as of Aug. 16, according to MOH's latest update on Aug. 17.

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Top image via Mufid Majnun on unsplash

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