If I am still tested COVID-positive after 7 days, can I still go back to work?

Last month, Singapore modify its COVID-19 protocols after the Omicron wave hit. The Ministry of Health (MOH) stated that the maximum self-isolation period will be reduced from 10 to 7 days for vaccinated individuals. For the unvaccinated individuals, the 14 days rule still remain.

For the vaccinated individuals who have gotten the COVID-19 virus, they are allowed to leave isolation if they are tested negative for COVID-19 after 72 hours. Knowing that significant proportions of the workforce may be down with the virus at the same time, these changes were crucial to diminish potential service disruptions.

Here are some clarifications regarding the new COVID-19 protocols that you may have in mind.

Situation A: If you are tested ART COVID-positive and was discharged after 7 days, but is still testing positive. What should you do?

To do: According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), you are free to go about your business as usual because you are likely not to be infectious after the 7^th day. However, If you are still showing symptoms, you are advised to see a doctor.

Situation B: Do I need to do another COVID-19 test before I am discharged, to show that I am no longer infectious after the 7 days of self-isolation?

To do: No, you do not need to take an exit test as you will be deemed as non-infectious and will automatically be discharged from noon of the 7^th day (for vaccinated individuals) or 14^th day (for unvaccinated individuals).

Situation C: You were told to self-isolate for 7 days. However, your ART results shows negative after 72 hours. Can I return back to school or work?

To do: Your negative ART result is a proof that you have recovered from COVID-19 and you are free to return back to school or work.

Situation D: I am tested ART COVID-19 positive at home and I did not see a doctor. Will my results be captured in the MOH’s system and daily case count? And will my close contact receive any health risk warnings / alerts?

To do: No, your results will not be reflected in the system or daily case count as there is no official record of your infection.

If you have not receive a health risk warning / alert despite being in close contact with someone who have been tested COVID-positive, you should monitor your health over the next few days and take an ART if you are worried. If you are starting to feel unwell and develop symptoms such as fever, sore throat and cough, you should visit the doctor immediately. The doctor will advise you on what to do next.

For more questions regarding COVID-19, you may visit our website – https://www.healthspringsgroup.com.sg/covid-19-pcr-swab-test/

If you are planning to go for Sinopharm vaccination, you may book an appointment to get vaccinated – https://www.healthspringsgroup.com.sg/sinopharm/

Here are our clinics available for COVID-19 tests and Sinopharm vaccinations:

• Healthsprings Medical Associates (Orchard clinic)

Address: 541 Orchard Road #10-02, Liat Towers Singapore 238881

• Healthsprings Medical & Laser Clinic (Woodleigh clinic / Bidadari clinic)

Address: 105A Bidadari Park Drive, #01-09 Singapore 341105

• Healthsprings Medical Clinic (Bukit Panjang clinic)

Address: 524A, Greenridge Shopping Centre, #02-01, Jelapang Road, Singapore 671524