Recently, there was a big scare in Hong Kong, where legionella bacteria were found in the water in some estates.

Exposure to the bacteria can cause legionellosis, which varies in severity, from a mild febrile illness to a serious and sometimes fatal form of pneumonia.

The bacteria multiply favourably in stagnant water and water where the temperature is between 20 deg C and 45 deg C.

This is a big concern and risk for us, given that Singapore is a tropical country. If it can happen in Hong Kong, it can happen in Singapore.

What steps are we taking to ensure that our potable water is safe and hygienic, to prevent this pathogen from surfacing?

Do we conduct legionella risk assessments in our public housing and public buildings?

Koh Lay Swan (Madam)