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SINGAPORE – The Singapore Armed Forces are testing less invasive sample collection methods for Covid-19 testing and testing with rapid results as more trainings resume.
Self-administered saliva collection and nasal swabs that are less uncomfortable as they only partially reach the nose are among the methods being tested in active SAF units, along with rapid antigen testing (ART).
ARTs are also being tested in other mass events where participants must record a negative result before being admitted.
These tests are suitable for large-scale events, where the fastest response is essential, even in basic military training graduation parades, which are currently held without guests.
Starting this month, all operationally ready Army National Military (NSmen), as well as their regular trainers, are required to undergo weekly polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing via the usual nasal swabs when requested a training in the field.
Chief Minister of State for Defense Zaqy Mohamad said on Tuesday (October 27) that making use of new evidence as it becomes available provides NSmen with assurance that the SAF is doing everything possible to maintain the security of the training, while allowing them to achieve training goals.
“We want to create that safe atmosphere and environment for our troops to train. But I think the most important thing is that if we are able to provide that safe environment, we can train on a much larger scale,” he said. , when answering a question about the weekly routine tests performed by the SAF.
He added that there is not yet a timeline for the implementation of the less invasive methods and rapid tests, as different methods may have different considerations.
Mr. Zaqy was speaking with reporters after a visit to the Infantry Training Institute at Jurong Camp II, where he met with NS members from the 791st Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (791 SIR).
ARTs can give results faster, are cheaper and easier to administer than PCR tests, although the latter are more accurate and remain the gold standard for confirming that someone has Covid-19.
Approximately 300 full-time national and regular soldiers have taken ART since September. About 400 have undergone the saliva collection test.
The test for the oropharyngeal or middle turbinate smear, in which a sample is taken from the back of the throat or partially through the nose, is pending.
Any military man can collect his saliva sample, but it will be under supervision. Taking a sample will mean gargling dry and then spitting into a test tube through a funnel. At least 2 ml of saliva is needed.
On the other hand, nasal swabs should be performed by medically trained personnel.
When asked about the use of ART, Mr. Zaqy said that graduation ceremonies or cast parades could be a possible application.
“How soon how soon, I think is still something that we are evaluating – these trials are ongoing … But before implementation, I think we have to make sure that it is effective and serves our purposes.”
Zaqy revealed that SAFs have not had any Covid-19 infection during in-field training (ICT) so far.
It will continue to resume more such training as testing capacity improves, he said, adding that the number of TICs is currently at about 50% of its usual level.
Approximately 600 NSmen from 791 SIRs took the routine nasal swab test when they registered at the camp for their two-week training that began on Monday (October 26).
Corporal First Class (NS) R Hariprasath said he was initially a bit concerned about security when he was called up, but felt reassured when he saw the measures in place.
The NS men were assigned to groups of up to 40 people for all activities, kept at safe distances, and wore masks except during strenuous training or during meals.
“I’ve never tried the newer collection methods, but I think it’s a good idea because it’s an easier process than having to swab your nose,” said the 25-year-old logistics executive.
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