SINGAPORE - A startling report from the Ministry of Health (MOH) shows that 78 out of 83 Covid-19 related deaths recorded in 2024 were among seniors aged 60 and above.

This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for older adults and those with underlying health conditions to receive booster vaccinations to safeguard against severe illness and death.

Declining Fatalities, Yet Tragedies Remain

Amidst a backdrop of declining fatalities compared to previous years—317 deaths in 2023 and 860 in 2022—officials are keen to emphasize that every life lost represents a tragedy, particularly in this vulnerable demographic.

Among the deceased, four were aged 50 to 59, and one was a teenager under the age of 16, further illustrating the virus's threat to those with pre-existing health complications.

Medical Conditions and Vaccination Status

The MOH reports that all four adults in their fifties had underlying medical issues, and three had not received a booster within the last year. The vaccination status of the fourth adult, a foreign visitor, remains unknown.

Notably, the young victim also had health conditions and had never been vaccinated against Covid-19.

Current Covid-19 Situation in Singapore

Despite the grim news, an MOH spokesperson reassured the public that the Covid-19 situation in Singapore is generally stable, even with the year-end travel season approaching.

“Our primary concern remains with severe cases that tend to affect seniors,” the spokesman emphasized.

Intensive Care Requirements

In the first eleven months of this year, a staggering 108 individuals required intensive care due to Covid-19, with 80% of those patients being seniors aged 60 and up.

The predominant circulating strain currently is MV.1, accounting for more than one-third of sequenced cases, and it is descended from JN.1, the target of the latest booster vaccine released on October 28.

Vaccine Administration and Public Health Commitment

Immunity studies show that the updated vaccine significantly boosts antibody levels against recent variants, indicating it could provide robust protection against the MV.1 strain.

So far, over 35,000 doses of the new vaccine have been administered, with seniors accounting for 60% of recipients.

By the end of 2024, approximately 410,000 individuals will have been vaccinated, illustrating the commitment to public health.

Encouragement for Booster Shots

The MOH is actively encouraging those who are elderly or have chronic health conditions to seek a booster shot.

Experts are echoing this sentiment, stressing the importance of vaccination for those at higher risk.

Professor Ooi Eng Eong, an expert at the Duke-NUS Medical School, advocates for renewed vaccination among vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, as infections could lead to dire consequences for them.

Recommendations for Travelers

In addition, Professor Dale Fisher, a senior consultant in infectious diseases, highly recommends that travelers receive a booster before embarking on trips—especially during this holiday season—which could expose them to increased risks.

Prime Minister's Encounter with Covid-19

In related news, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong tested positive for Covid-19 this December, marking his first encounter with the virus.

Though asymptomatic, he adhered to MOH guidelines and self-isolated to curb transmission.

Vaccination Accessibility and Urgent Call to Action

Covid-19 vaccines remain free and accessible at polyclinics and numerous general practitioner clinics.

With the continued emergence of new variants, it’s critical that those with vulnerabilities take proactive measures to protect their health.

The message is clear: Get vaccinated now to safeguard your future!