Data on Food Poisoning Cases in Preschools under Anchor and Partner Operator Schemes and Private Operators over Last Nine Months

34 Mr Ng Shi Xuan asked the Minister for Social and Family Development over the last nine months, what is the breakdown of the number of food poisoning cases in preschools that are operated (i) under the Anchor Operator Scheme, (ii) under the Partner Operator Scheme and (iii) privately.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: There have been eight investigations conducted into gastroenteritis outbreaks in preschools in the past nine months, which may be viral or foodborne.

The Early Childhood Development Agency does not monitor the number of food poisoning cases by scheme. All preschools, regardless of schemes, must adhere to health and hygiene requirements specified in the Early Childhood Development Centres Regulations and Code of Practice. This includes disinfection of contaminated surfaces and monitoring of symptoms in the event of suspected or known gastroenteritis cases. This helps to safeguard children's health and limit the impact of a gastroenteritis outbreak in preschools.