Debated in Parliament on 4 Nov 2025.
Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what lessons on gastroenteritis outbreaks at preschools have the Ministry learnt, particularly after a recent spate of cases in the past two months; (b) were these lessons shared with other preschools; and (c) what steps are being taken to ensure that operators maintain high standards of hygiene, if any.
Investigations for recent gastroenteritis cases at preschools are ongoing. The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) is monitoring the situation and working with relevant preschool operators to ensure the well-being of children and staff.
ECDA and the Singapore Food Agency has issued a joint advisory to remind preschools to exercise vigilance to minimise the risk of gastroenteritis in preschools. Besides conducting daily temperature and health checks for all children, staff and visitors upon arrival, preschools must also follow clear guidelines on the management of infectious diseases if there are suspected or known cases among children, staff or parents. This includes notifying ECDA and complying with disinfection guidelines to limit the spread of disease. Preschools must also adhere to health and hygiene requirements in the Early Childhood Development Centres Regulations and Code of Practice. This includes ensuring that premises are well-ventilated and clean, and that there are proper procedures for food preparation and storage.
To ensure that preschools maintain high standards of hygiene, ECDA conducts unannounced visits to preschools as part of its licensing regime. ECDA's officers will assess preschools' measures and processes to safeguard child health and safety. ECDA will take the necessary regulatory actions against non-compliant preschools, which could include warnings and financial penalties.
PAPERCUTS