Update on COVID-19 Vaccination Programme for Students

Mr Darryl David asked the Minister for Education (a) how is the COVID-19 vaccination programme for students coming along; and (b) whether any student has suffered adverse reactions to the vaccines.

As part of the national vaccination programme, MOE commenced its vaccination exercise for students on 1 June 2021. We have been encouraged by the good progress. As of 4 July 2021, over 313,000 eligible students (around 91%) have registered for their vaccination appointments, of which about 98% have received their first dose.

HSA has been monitoring the adverse events (AEs) in our students, especially for the younger students. Thus far, the AEs reported are similar to those in adults and most comprise injection site pain, fatigue, headache, chills and fever, which generally resolve on their own within a few days. Likewise, the preliminary incidence rates for students appear to be fairly similar to the adult population, but it would be best to let HSA provide a detailed update to the public as part of their regular safety update on the COVID-19 vaccines.

There are also a very small number of serious adverse events (SAEs) that have been reported. These SAE cases either did not require hospitalisation, or if they did, they have all since been discharged. HSA is reviewing the cases to assess if they are linked to vaccination. MOE, MOH and HSA will continue to monitor the AEs that occur, and take the appropriate actions to safeguard the health of our students.