Prevention of Spread of Diseases

Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for Health in light of the 10th anniversary of the SARS episode, in what ways will the Ministry continue with its education programme to remind Singapore residents of the need to observe their personal hygiene and to take steps not to spread cough or flu viruses when affected.

Since the SARS crisis in 2003, the Health Promotion Board (HPB) has been putting out education campaigns regularly to emphasise the importance of good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases. Several key strategies have been used.

Firstly, HPB uses mass media, such as radio, TV commercials and print media, to increase the population's knowledge and awareness on how respiratory diseases are transmitted and can be prevented. Examples of this approach would include the flu campaigns that are rolled out twice a year, around May and November.

Secondly, HPB proactively reaches out and educates the public on social responsibility and good hygiene practices through workplace programmes and community talks. Behaviours, such as hand washing and covering one's mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, can help to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases. Individuals are also reminded to seek medical attention promptly if they have symptoms, such as fever and cough. These educational messages, while simple, will help to reduce the spread of diseases like influenza.

Thirdly, educational outreach to schools is an important strategy in promoting personal and social hygiene. Interactive skits for primary school students as well as the "Health on Wheels" initiative that also targets pre-schoolers, ensure that these messages are delivered in a fun yet effective way. HPB also launched the "Let's Wash Hands" initiative in primary schools in 2012. This programme sets out to reach all Primary 1 and 2 students by 2015. Initiatives for relevant stakeholders, such as parents and teachers, have also

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been implemented.

Finally, HPB works closely with community and business partners to roll out setting-specific programmes. An example of this work would be the programmes for staff and volunteers at community centres and eldercare centres. These interventions couple the awareness of flu and other respiratory diseases with practical application of necessary skills like mask use and proper hand washing techniques.

Infectious diseases continue to be a concern in Singapore. We will continue to educate and encourage Singaporeans to adopt good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases in our community. In recent months, we see a rise in dengue cases in Singapore, MOH is supporting NEA's efforts in public education on dengue prevention.