The validity of medical exemptions issued to those who cannot receive the COVID-19 vaccine because of underlying health conditions, will only be determined by the Permanent Secretary for Health Dr James Fong and his team, at the ministry headquarters.

This was the clarification made by Dr James Fong yesterday.

Dr Fong clarified that medical doctors would have to verify any health conditions that any person claimed to have for choosing not to receive the vaccine.

He said anyone wishing to get validity on any claims of individuals for medical exemption could then refer to the Ministry of Health for validation.

“We have a team that will assess for exemption based on the consensus guidelines that is made by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation,” Dr Fong said.

“The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) provides scientific and technical advice to support government decision makers during emergencies.”

Dr Fong also said the Ministry of Health and Medical Services was solely tasked to do this and not just any medical professional.

“This is only for medical exemption, which is the only premise we can legally make exemption for. We do not give validation for any other perosn or persons seeking other exemptions,” he said.

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