Dear readers, the Wuhan Novel Coronavirus has 40 confirmed cases in Singapore as at 11.40pm update yesterday. Of these confirmed cases, it was reported that four were in critical condition with one requiring additional oxygen support. Some of the confirmed cases involved private-hire drivers and Grab, the ride-hailing company has announced that it will suspend its Grab-share service with effect from today until further notice.
In China (Ground Zero of the Wuhan Novel Coronavirus), as of 9am today Singapore time, the death toll has crossed over 800 with more than 37,000 confirmed cases. The death toll has already exceeded that from the SARS episode for mainland China and Hong Kong combined.
Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong addressed Singaporeans in relation to the coronavirus on TV yesterday. Singaporeans were re-assured that the nation has enough of the essential supplies like rice, instant noodles and toilet paper, the top three items which were grabbed up by Singaporeans on Friday 7 February 2020 beside of course facial masks.
Some members of the public have also supported Singapore’s schools to be closed for 14 days. An online petition at Change.org for the Singapore’s Ministry of Education to implement online school for 14 days in view of the novel coronavirus episode has been started. As of this time in writing, the poll has garnered some 35,800 of the targeted 50,000 signatures.
Despite the somewhat increasing statistics for the Wuhan novel coronavirus cases for Singapore, I still find life goes on as usual for many of the Singaporeans. The only differences are that I have seen more around us wearing masks and that some of the eateries and cafes are now seeing lesser crowds.
I believe Singapore and Singaporeans can defeat the Wuhan Novel Coronavirus episode with our collective efforts. 加油! JIAYOU Singapore!