The Straits Times says

Seniors should step up to get vaccinated

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Covid-19 may no longer be as dangerous for most Singaporeans, but there is one group to whom it still poses a serious threat: seniors aged 60 and above who are not vaccinated, and those 80 and above even if they are vaccinated. The recent rise in Covid-19 cases here has seen more of them experiencing severe symptoms when infected. Given their higher risk profile, seniors and those living with them have been strongly urged to stay at home, especially if they are unvaccinated. They have been encouraged to go out only for essential activities and avoid crowded places, and to minimise group activities and social gatherings. Also on the list of things to do less are mask-off activities such as dining in at hawker centres.

Some seniors are chafing at the latest move to bar those who are unvaccinated from dining in at hawker centres and coffee shops. They are also not allowed into shopping malls where they may be exposed to crowds, although they can enter supermarkets that are standalone stores. Some seniors find staying at home the whole day stifling, and continue to venture out despite the risks. Others head out because they need to work. At the same time, there are those who are resistant to getting even a single dose of the vaccine, due to irrational fears of side effects. Strenuous efforts have been made to reach out to them, from mobile vaccination teams to e-vouchers for those who refer unvaccinated seniors for jabs.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 14, 2021, with the headline Seniors should step up to get vaccinated. Subscribe