Part 9/12:

As the pandemic persisted, Singapore adopted the "hammer and dance" strategy—initial aggressive measures to suppress outbreaks ("hammer") followed by more adaptable responses that allowed for controlled transmission ("dance"). The goal was to avoid prolonged closures and maintain economic and social activity.

In July and August 2021, Singapore faced new clusters, including the significant jurong fish market outbreak, with over 300 cases linked to it. The virus’s rapid spread was exacerbated by global travel and imported cases, which seeded new outbreaks. In response, the government tightened measures, reinstating Phase Two heightened alert and reinforcing hospital capacities. Despite the intense pressures, hospital systems remained functional, and fatalities stayed comparatively low.