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SINGAPORE (The Straits Times / ANN): Singapore is very likely to plan to vaccinate different segments of the population against Covid-19 starting next year.
Those who are most vulnerable to the coronavirus and those who are at higher risk of becoming infected, such as healthcare professionals and others in front-line positions, may have priority for vaccination, said Health Ministry director of medical services Kenneth Mak, at a virtual press conference. on Tuesday (October 20).
The details of the prioritization will be worked out by a panel of experts, who will also study the various vaccine options.
“We have convened an expert panel of physicians and scientists to advise us on which of the candidate vaccines will be the most appropriate for our environment,” said Professor Mak.
“Many of the candidates will only complete phase three studies by the end of this year … so it would be more likely that we would make more plans to vaccinate different parts of our population starting next year.”
Singapore is looking to acquire several different vaccines and is following the studies very carefully.
Health Minister Gan Kim Yong said that by collaborating with various providers, Singapore will be able to diversify its risk in the event that a candidate vaccine is unsuccessful. The country is also exploring new vaccine manufacturers and candidates, and continues to keep its options open.
Factors such as the price and quantity of the vaccine, whether it is only suitable for certain groups, and the possibility of adverse effects must also be considered.
The panel of experts will also study other logistical aspects such as who should have priority for vaccination and how to manage distribution.
“Some of the adverse effects may only occur over a longer period of time, so we have to consider the potential risk … it’s a balance between benefits and risks,” Gan said. – The Straits Times / Asia News Network
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