Debated in Parliament on 4 Oct 2021.
Ms Ng Ling Ling asked the Minister for Health of the positive COVID-19 cases that are confirmed with a polymerase chain test at a Swab and Send Home clinic, how many of these cases have been initially detected through the antigen rapid self-test kits.
Mr Xie Yao Quan asked the Minister for Health (a) to date, what are the respective numbers of healthcare workers who have been (i) confirmed as COVID-19 positive (ii) placed on quarantine (iii) placed on health risk warning and (iv) placed on health risk alert; and (b) whether the Ministry is considering any strategies to ensure sufficient manning in the public healthcare sector while managing the risks.
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Health (a) how many individuals are currently hired for COVID-19 contact tracing operations; (b) whether manpower numbers will be adjusted given the recent huge spike in cases and as Singapore moves towards an endemic COVID-19 situation; and (c) what are the principles behind how manpower adjustments in contact tracing operations will be made.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Health (a) since 18 August 2021, how many patients who tested positive for COVID-19 waited (i) between 24 and 72 hours or (ii) more than 72 hours, after the receipt of their test results before being issued Quarantine Orders; and (b) whether more staff and resources will be provided to operate the Ministry hotline and convey COVID-19 patients to Government quarantine facilities.
These questions for written answer have been addressed by oral reply to Question Nos 1 to 20 on the Order Paper for 4 October 2021. [Please refer to "Update on Government Decisions and Measures as Singapore Moves into Endemic Stage of COVID-19 Situation", Official Report, 4 October 2021, Vol 95, Issue 39, Oral Answers to Questions section.]
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