Singapore authorities are investigating 185 reported cases of gastroenteritis linked to six E-Bridge preschools. The affected locations include Bukit Panjang, Canberra, Montreal, Woodlands Drive, 471B Yishun, and 504 Yishun, according to a joint statement from the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA), Singapore Food Agency (SFA), and Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) on Friday, November 21.
A total of 173 students and 12 staff members became unwell after consuming meals supplied by Middleton International School.
“One student was hospitalised and is in stable condition,” the statement said. “The rest either sought outpatient treatment, self-medicated, or recovered without needing treatment.”
Action Taken
In response, the SFA has suspended the food business operations of Middleton International School, located at 2 Tampines Street 92, from Friday until further notice.
During the suspension, the licensee must follow specific measures, including thoroughly cleaning and sanitising the premises, equipment, and utensils.
“All food handlers must retake and pass the Food Safety Course Level 1 and test negative for foodborne pathogens before resuming work,” the authorities said. The appointed food hygiene officer must also retake and pass the Food Safety Course Level 3 before returning to work.
Ensuring Children’s Meals
ECDA is in contact with the preschool operators, who have made alternative arrangements to ensure that children continue to receive meals without disruption.
“SFA would like to remind food operators to maintain good food and personal hygiene practices at all times,” the statement read. “SFA will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone found violating the Environmental Public Health Act.”
Members of the public who notice poor hygiene at food establishments are encouraged not to patronise such outlets and report incidents via SFA’s online feedback form for follow-up investigations.
Past Incidents
This is not the first time E-Bridge preschools have faced gastroenteritis cases. Around 44 suspected cases were reported in October at two outlets on Dawson Road and Sengkang Square, less than a month after a similar outbreak at its MacPherson branch.
