Shreya NairHaven’t we all been looking forward to phase three of reopening? From spending time with extended families to celebrating New Year’s Eve with a group of friends, these are some things we finally do in this next step of Singapore’s reopening.
Image credit: Brian Evans
Singapore has been able to handle the COVID-19 pandemic efficiently and is currently in phase two of reopening. Health Minister Gan Kim Yong said Singapore’s phase three of reopening may be around the corner. The country may move into this next stage as 2020 comes to an end.
How long will phase three last?
Image credit: GovTech Singapore
If the community spread of COVID-19 is contained and kept minimal, Singapore’s phase three of reopening could start by the end of the year. However, this does come with several restrictions and health measures.
Based on how the world controls the virus, phase three in Singapore could last for more than a year. Furthermore, existing health measures under phase two would remain in place.
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Thus, people in the community will have to continue following safe management measures. Mr. Gan also reiterated that phase three will not involve returning to pre-COVID days but would be the “new normal”.
People in the community will have to continue using the TraceTogether app or token when they are outside their homes. This is to ensure effective contact tracing at workplaces, schools, and other public places.
Furthermore, masks will be compulsory during Singapore’s phase three of reopening. Those experiencing symptoms of acute respiratory infection will have to get it checked by a physician.
Although the new group size limit is not set as of now, people will have to continue practicing social distancing. The intermingling of groups will also not be allowed as this would potentially increase the risk of infection.
Image credit: Franklin Heijnen
Whilst not being able to hold large reunions and parties may come as a damper to many of us, it is crucial to the country’s continuous recovery It becomes important for us to realise the importance of following these measures, at least until a viable commercial vaccine comes out.
Let’s play our part and maintain social responsibility during Singapore’s phase three of reopening. Till then, we can only remain hopeful of returning to pre-COVID times!
