Forum: Playground sandpits could increase risk of HFMD transmission
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The article “Why Singapore wants children to play with sand and swings again” (May 23) reported that playgrounds are getting a design rethink. One idea being explored is bringing back sandpits in playgrounds to encourage sand play.
In the 1990s, sandpits in playgrounds were replaced by padded rubber flooring. This was to address operational and maintenance challenges such as the need to regularly sift out trash, leaves, and bird and animal droppings, besides safety and health concerns.
Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is endemic in Singapore. The virus that causes HFMD is highly contagious.
As sand can trap moisture and organic material, sand contaminated with an infected child’s secretions can act as an ideal middleman for HFMD transmission.
I urge the authorities to reconsider the idea of bringing back sandpits. If sandpits are introduced into playgrounds, parents and childminders will need to observe strict hygiene practices to cut the risk of HFMD transmission.
Gerard Ang
