SINGAPORE - Half of the infants at a pre-school in Tanjong Pagar have come down with stomach flu that appears to have been caused by a viral infection.
Eight children in Haven Infant & Toddler Centre Tanjong Pagar have experienced gastroenteritis symptoms, including diarrhoea and vomiting, so far. The pre-school has an enrolment of 16 infants and six staff.
Responding to queries, the centre’s principal, Ms Angelyn Leong, said stomach flu symptoms were first detected on Jan 3. Two children had developed diarrhoea then, and both did not attend school the next day.
One of the two children returned to the centre two days later despite still showing symptoms, and the parents said the doctor had given the green light for the child to do so as the diarrhoea was caused by eating too much, said Ms Leong.
But more children started falling ill, including four who vomited on Jan 10.
All the staff are well, said Ms Leong, adding that none of the affected children was hospitalised and two have since made a full recovery.
The centre at Tanjong Pagar Community Club looks after children aged two months to 30 months. It is run by the Singapore Amalgamated Services Co-operative Organisation.
Said Ms Leong: “The preliminary findings from our investigations suggest that the stomach flu outbreak may have been caused by a viral infection.
“However, we are continuing our investigations to determine the exact cause and prevent any further cases.”
She said the centre has hired a professional cleaning firm to carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection to contain the outbreak. The health authorities have also been informed about the situation.
The authorities have contacted the school and will collect stool samples from a few of the children who fell ill for further investigation and analysis. The centre will remain open on Jan 11.
When contacted, the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) and the Ministry of Health confirmed that they are aware of this matter and are investigating an incident of suspected gastroenteritis.
“ECDA is monitoring the situation and working closely with the pre-school operator to ensure the well-being of the children and staff,” both organisations said in a joint statement.
“As a precautionary measure, ECDA has advised the pre-school to step up cleaning and disinfection of the premises to prevent the spread of infection among children and staff.”
