S71/2020

Amendments to First Schedule

The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has been added into the First Schedule Part II of the Biological Agents and Toxins Act (BATA) with effect from 30 January 2020.

An approval to possess the virus from the Ministry of Health must be secured, prior to the physical possession of the 2019-nCoV or samples/material containing 2019-nCoV. All requirements set forth for First Schedule Part II in the BATA are mandatory for the possession of 2019-nCoV.

Performance of diagnostic activities involving samples which contain/are suspected to contain the 2019-nCoV must be performed in compliance to MOH Circular on Interpretation of Diagnosis (34/2006) and the PHMCA/HCSA (where applicable). An Interim Biosafety Guideline for Laboratories and Personnel Handling Samples or Materials Associated with the 2019-nCoV can be found under the Useful Info and Guidelines page.