In order to help minimize the spread of the novel Omicron coronavirus type, Singapore will suspend new ticket sales for quarantine-free travel beginning Thursday, December 23 through January 20, 2022. Buses and planes are both restricted from arriving in the autonomous city-state, according to CNBC. Those who have previously booked quarantine-free travel to Singapore will be able to enter according to the old rules. As of this writing, 65 Omicron variants have been identified in Singapore, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Health. At the beginning of December, 87 percent of residents were fully vaccinated, making it one of the highest vaccination rates in the world. Singapore has rescinded its no-quarantine policy, forcing international travelers to take PCR tests upon arrival and daily rapid antigen tests during their first week in the country. Singapore has changed its travel restrictions yet again with the suspension of quarantine-free travel.
Singapore will reconsider the time frame for achieving full Covid immunity.
A report by CNBC said the government strengthened testing procedures, postponed announcing quarantine-free travel between Middle Eastern countries, and restricted travel from Southern African nations, where the Omicron variant first appeared. “Our border measures will help to buy us time to study and understand the Omicron variant, and to strengthen our defenses, including enhancing our healthcare capacity, and getting more people vaccinated and boosted. Meanwhile, we need everyone to remain vigilant to reduce the risks of widespread community transmission and to keep yourself, your loved ones, and the community safe. In particular, travelers must adhere closely to the travel health control measures,” the Health Ministry noted in a recent news release. In addition to Singapore, other countries also suspended travel to this country free of quarantine. Israel had earlier this week banned travel to several countries, including Canada and the United States. Thailand has just suspended its Thailand Pass program for international travelers.
