Navigating Heightened Phase 2: A Comprehensive Guide for Enhanced Health Safety

Introduction

As the global pandemic evolves, governments and health organizations continue to implement measures to mitigate its impact. Singapore, among other countries, has entered Heightened Phase 2 (HP2), a period characterized by stricter restrictions and enhanced health precautions. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of HP2, highlighting its implications, strategies for compliance, and best practices for safeguarding public health.

Measures and Restrictions

HP2 commenced on May 16, 2021, and is expected to last until June 13, 2021. The revised measures under HP2 include:

a. Reduced Social Gatherings:

• Maximum group size for social gatherings: 2 persons
• Weddings and marriage solemnizations: 100 attendees maximum (with pre-event testing)

b. Workplace Restrictions:

• Work-From-Home (WFH) is mandatory for employees who can perform their tasks remotely
• Workplaces must ensure strict adherence to safe management measures, including mask-wearing, physical distancing, and regular cleaning

c. Event and Activity Restrictions:

• All live performances, sporting events, and large-scale events are cancelled
• Religious services and wedding receptions are suspended

d. Travel Restrictions:

• No social visits to households or between households
• No dining-in at Food and Beverage (F&B) establishments

Rationale for Heightened Measures

The rationale for implementing HP2 lies in the alarming surge in COVID-19 cases in Singapore. According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), the daily COVID-19 caseload increased from an average of 20 to 30 cases in early May to over 100 cases by the end of the month. This sharp rise, coupled with the emergence of new clusters and unknown transmission chains, prompted the government to take decisive action to curb the spread of the virus.

Implications for Daily Life

The restrictions under HP2 have significant implications for daily life. Individuals are advised to minimize social interactions, work from home wherever possible, and adhere to safe management practices. Public places, such as malls, supermarkets, and public transport, will likely experience reduced crowds. F&B establishments will be closed for dine-in, leading to increased reliance on takeaways and delivery services.

Strategies for Compliance

a. Strictly Adhere to Gathering Limits:

• Limit social gatherings to 2 persons at a time
• Inform others of the gathering limits and politely decline invitations that exceed these limits

b. Work From Home:

• Comply with mandatory WFH requirements
• If WFH is not possible, follow strict safe management measures at the workplace

c. Avoid Crowded Places:

• Visit public places during off-peak hours
• Maintain a safe distance from others in queues and common areas

d. Support Contact Tracing:

• Enable Bluetooth on your TraceTogether app or token
• Use SafeEntry Gateway to check in and out of premises

e. Observe Good Hygiene:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
• Wear a mask in public places
• Avoid touching your face

Effective Safe Management Practices

a. Social Distancing:

• Maintain a distance of at least 1 meter from others in public places
• Avoid close contact with individuals who are unwell

b. Mask-Wearing:

• Wear a clean mask that covers your nose and mouth in public places
• Replace your mask regularly

c. Frequent Hand Hygiene:

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available

d. SafeEntry Check-In:

• Scan the SafeEntry QR code with your TraceTogether app or token upon entering and exiting premises

e. Contactless Payments:

• Use contactless payment methods, such as NETS FlashPay or PayNow, to avoid handling cash

f. Sick Leave:

• Stay home if you are feeling unwell
• Inform your employer and seek medical attention if you suspect you have COVID-19

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

A group of friends decided to meet at a park for a gathering of more than 3 persons, violating the gathering limit. One of the individuals present was a silent carrier of COVID-19. Within a few days, all five friends tested positive for the virus and became part of a large cluster.

Lesson Learned:

Adhere strictly to gathering limits and avoid unnecessary social interactions to prevent further transmission of the virus.

Story 2:

An employee continued to go to work despite experiencing mild symptoms, such as a runny nose and slight fever. Unbeknownst to him, he was infected with COVID-19. As a result, he spread the virus to multiple colleagues, leading to a workplace outbreak.

Lesson Learned:

If you are unwell, stay home from work or school and seek medical attention. Do not risk exposing others to the virus.

Story 3:

A family neglected to check in using SafeEntry at a supermarket. When one family member tested positive for COVID-19, it became difficult for the authorities to trace the individuals who had come into contact with the infected person.

Lesson Learned:

Consistently use SafeEntry when entering and exiting premises to facilitate contact tracing efforts.

Step-by-Step Approach for Safe Navigation

Step 1: Understand the Measures and Rationale

Familiarize yourself with the restrictions and guidelines under HP2 and the reasons behind their implementation.

Step 2: Plan and Adjust

Adjust your daily routine to comply with the measures. Plan your shopping trips, work schedules, and social interactions accordingly.

Step 3: Practice Safe Habits

Incorporate safe management practices into your daily life, including social distancing, mask-wearing, and frequent hand hygiene.

Step 4: Monitor and Inform

Stay informed about the latest COVID-19 developments and monitor your health. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms.

Step 5: Support Contact Tracing

Enable Bluetooth on your TraceTogether app or token and use SafeEntry Gateway when visiting public places. This will facilitate contact tracing efforts in the event of a COVID-19 case.

Call to Action

The success of HP2 depends on the collective efforts of every individual. Let us:

• Adhere to the measures: Follow the guidelines and restrictions to protect ourselves and others.
• Practice good hygiene: Maintain safe habits, such as mask-wearing, handwashing, and physical distancing.
• Support contact tracing: Use TraceTogether and SafeEntry to assist in the identification of close contacts in case of an infection.
• Stay informed: Keep abreast of the latest COVID-19 developments and government announcements to make informed decisions.
• Be responsible: Protect not only ourselves but also our loved ones and the wider community.

Tables for Enhanced Understanding

Table 1: Key Differences Between Phase 2 and Heightened Phase 2

Table 2: Safe Management Practices for Daily Life

Table 3: Steps to Navigate Heightened Phase 2 Safely