Food poisoning incident at Pat’s Schoolhouse

12 May 2011

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and National Environment Agency (NEA) are investigating into a food poisoning incident involving a licensed caterer, Mum’s Kitchen Catering Pte Ltd, supplying to Pat’s Schoolhouse upon notification today.

2 To date, MOH has been notified of a total of 218 cases. Most of the cases experienced mild symptoms and are recovering. Seven of the affected cases are currently receiving treatment in hospital. These cases had onset of illness starting on 10 May 2011. The main symptoms experienced by cases were fever, diarrhoea and vomiting.

3 MOH and NEA immediately conducted joint inspections at the caterer’s premises on the same day. A total of 8 food samples and 3 environmental swabs were taken by MOH and sent to the laboratory for microbial analysis. 19 food handlers were also referred for screening for food-borne pathogens. Epidemiological investigations are on-going.

4 In the course of the checks, NEA found a dirty refrigerator door lining. No other lapses were found at the food preparation and storage areas.  Notwithstanding, the caterer has been instructed to disinfect his premises and all items used in the preparation and storage of food. The caterer has been fined $300 for the dirty refrigerator door lining and given 4 demerit points.

5 In the interest of public safety, NEA is temporarily suspending the licence of the caterer pending the outcome of the investigations. This will take immediate effect. The same caterer had been fined for lapses in Dec last year for a food poisoning incident involving 35 persons of a company function who came down with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting.

6 MOH has advised the school to be alert to new cases and maintain high standards of hygiene among students and staff.  Further updates will be given when available.