Is COVID-19 Still a Threat? Exploring Public Perceptions and Vaccine Innovations

Is COVID-19 still a threat? This question lingers as we continue to navigate life in a world that has adjusted to the virus’s presence. In Singapore, a recent survey shows that many still consider COVID-19 a threat. Let’s delve into the survey findings and discuss the latest in vaccine devel  opments, including a promising COVID-19 and flu combination vaccine.

Survey Reveals Ongoing Concerns About COVID-19

Overview of the Survey

A recent survey by Milieu, commissioned by Pfizer Singapore, sheds light on how Singaporeans view COVID-19 today. Conducted to understand the public’s perception of COVID-19 and vaccination, the survey reached a diverse cross-section of the population.

The findings are quite revealing:

60% of Singaporeans believe COVID-19 remains a threat to their health and their families’ wellbeing.

Despite the presence of COVID-19 in our daily lives, only 30% express significant concern about the virus.

Furthermore, only 40% feel well-informed about COVID-19, highlighting a gap in public knowledge.

Key Findings

The emergence of new variants is a primary reason for the ongoing concern. Variants like JN.1, KP.1, and KP.2 have been driving recent surges in cases, making it difficult for the public to fully relax their guard.

Vaccine uptake has slowed. While vaccinations are crucial in preventing severe illness and controlling the spread of COVID-19, the survey indicates a notable decline in vaccine updates:

• Just 15% updated their COVID-19 vaccination between September 2023 and March 2024.
• 50% of respondents stated they do not plan to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine in 2024.

This hesitancy could be attributed to vaccine fatigue, misinformation, or complacency, but it underscores the need for ongoing public health efforts to encourage vaccination.

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy

The Role of Vaccinations

Directly addressing the importance of vaccinations, Minister Ong Ye Kung, during a virtual conference, highlighted the necessity of maintaining up-to-date vaccinations as a key defence against severe illness. His message was clear: Staying vigilant with vaccinations is crucial for both individual and public health.

Despite the clear benefits, the survey shows mixed feelings about getting updated vaccines. This reluctance might stem from misconceptions about vaccine efficacy or concerns about side effects, which public health campaigns need to tackle head-on.

Innovations in Vaccination: The COVID-Flu Combination

Is COVID-19 still a threat? It appears so, but there’s hope on the horizon with new vaccination strategies. Moderna has announced promising late-stage trial results for its COVID-19 and flu combination vaccine. Named mRNA-1083, this vaccine has shown improved immune responses, especially in older adults, compared to receiving separate COVID-19 and flu shots.

How the Combination Vaccine Works

mRNA-1083 aims to simplify the vaccination process by combining protection against both COVID-19 and the flu in a single jab. This approach could improve convenience and potentially boost overall vaccination rates. The combination vaccine isn’t expected to be available until 2025, but its development is a significant step forward.

The Benefits of the 2-in-1 Jab

Is it better to get Moderna’s 2-in-1 jab or separate flu and COVID-19 vaccines? In terms of convenience, receiving one jab instead of two is simpler. The trial results suggest that Moderna’s combination vaccine offers better protection to seniors against both the flu and COVID-19 compared to taking separate vaccines.

What about cost? For seniors and those with specific medical conditions, the Ministry of Health (MOH) recommends vaccinations against both the flu and COVID-19. These are provided for free under the HealthierSG scheme for eligible Singaporeans and permanent residents. If MOH decides to procure the combination vaccine, it will likely be available at no additional cost to those who qualify.

Professor Hsu Li Yang from NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health anticipates that the combination vaccine will be “competitively priced” compared to existing vaccines. This means it shouldn’t be more expensive for those who need to pay for their vaccinations. Professor Alex Cook added that the overall cost includes labour and time savings from receiving one vaccination instead of two. Those who prefer separate jabs can still take both at the same time.

Will Singapore Adopt the Combination Vaccine?

Will Singapore get the 2-in-1 jab? It’s too early to tell. The clinical trials have just concluded, and the vaccine is expected to be commercially available by 2025. Moderna aims to launch it in time for the 2025 Northern Hemisphere winter season. Professor Cook notes that the combination vaccine could improve flu vaccination rates, which is crucial since more people die from influenza than COVID-19 in Singapore. However, not everyone who is eligible for the free flu vaccine currently gets it annually.

Studies on Co-Administration of Vaccines

Research supports the co-administration of the COVID-19 and flu vaccines. A study published in JAMA Network Open found that getting both vaccines simultaneously provides nearly the same protection as getting the COVID-19 vaccine alone. Participants who received both vaccines reported similar antibody responses and adverse reactions as those who received only the COVID-19 vaccine.

Future Pandemic Preparedness

Mixed Feelings About Preparedness

The survey also explored how prepared Singaporeans feel for future pandemics. About half of the respondents expressed confidence in their ability to handle another respiratory pandemic, similar to COVID-19. Familiarity with practices like social distancing and mask-wearing contributes to this confidence. However, the unpredictable nature of new virus strains leaves many feeling less prepared.

Being prepared involves more than just public measures; it requires personal responsibility in staying informed and vaccinated. Minister Ong’s remarks during the pandemic preparedness report launch stress that individual efforts, alongside government measures, are vital in mitigating future threats.

Long-Term Health Strategies

To conclude, addressing the question “Is COVID-19 still a threat?”, the answer remains complex. While general concern about the virus might be waning, its potential to disrupt lives is still present, especially with new variants and low vaccination uptake.

Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations and staying informed about new developments are crucial steps. The introduction of innovative vaccines like the COVID-flu combination could play a significant role in future public health strategies.