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SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Health (MINSA) said on Saturday (August 29) that it plans to offer COVID-19 tests to community groups such as taxi drivers, food delivery people, as well as to street vendors in street vending centers, markets and cafeterias. .
This is part of efforts to expand the COVID-19 testing regime, the ministry said.
“These tests will be offered to these groups to provide a better picture of the prevalence of the population and to facilitate early containment of any cryptic cases in the community,” he added.
“While there has been no local evidence that these community groups are at increased risk of infection, the Ministry of Health will offer them evidence given the nature of their work environment, such as the high frequency of interactions with members of the public.”
The Health Ministry said authorities will progressively contact identified community groups to offer the tests only once, adding that the costs of the tests will be borne by the government.
“We strongly encourage people from identified community groups to come forward and use the tests offered,” he added.
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The Health Ministry said it regularly reviews its testing strategies.
In addition to surveillance tests in patients older than 12 years diagnosed with acute respiratory infection, groups such as preschool teachers, residents and nursing home employees were also evaluated, he noted.
“Although the number of community cases remains low and stable today, we must not lower our guard,” the Health Ministry said.
“As we gradually reopen our economy and resume social activities, we will conduct more extensive testing in the community.”
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