Update on food poisoning incidents (13 April)

13 Apr 2009

'Rojak Geylang Serai' at Geylang Serai Temporary Market

1. Following the closure of 'Rojak Geylang Serai' at Geylang Serai Temporary Market on 4th April, transmission of food poisoning cases linked to the food stall had ceased. Since 9th April, there were no further notified cases to MOH. The total number of food poisoning cases remains the same at 154, with 48 cases hospitalised. Three patients are still in the hospital. These patients have recovered from their food poisoning illness and are in hospital for management of their other medical conditions that are unrelated to their food poisoning illness.

2. Stool cultures of five foodhandlers from ‘Rojak Geylang Serai’ have tested negative for Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The result for the food handler from the ‘Mee Siam’ stall is still pending.

BaShuRenJia Steamboat Restaurant at 233 Lorong 9 Geylang Road

3. MOH has been notified of another three cases, bringing the total number of cases thus far to 17. These cases developed onset of illness between 9 and 11 Apr 2009; they had consumed food at the steamboat restaurant from 9 to 10 Apr 2009. All except two patients received outpatient treatment. Both patients have been discharged.

4. 13 food handlers from the steamboat restaurant have been directed by MOH to undergo screening at the Communicable Disease Centre. MOH and NEA have conducted checks in the premises of the restaurant. No hygiene lapses were identified at the time of the inspections. The restaurant will remain in operation while investigations are ongoing, but the operator has been directed to advise its patrons to ensure that their food is thoroughly cooked before consumption. 

5. The public is advised to take note of personal hygiene and the cleanliness of the environment, especially when eating out. More information on food poisoning and how you can prevent it to protect yourself and your family is available at MOH’s website (www.moh.gov.sg). For health related queries, members of the public can also contact MOH at 1800-2254122. For feedback on any hygiene lapses, the public may contact NEA at their 24-hr hotline 1800-2255 632.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AGENCY