165 personnel at SCDF academy fall ill with gastroenteritis; investigations ongoing

SINGAPORE: Authorities are investigating cases of gastroenteritis reported at the Civil Defence Academy after more than 160 personnel fell ill between Tuesday (Jul 23) and Wednesday.

As of Jul 24, 165 people were reported to have developed gastroenteritis symptoms, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Ministry of Health (MOH) said on Friday in response to CNA’s query.

None of them were hospitalised, read the joint statement. 

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) personnel from the academy experienced “mild gastroenteritis”, SCDF told CNA on Friday.

The symptoms included abdominal discomfort and diarrhoea, it added.

“All affected personnel had sought medical treatment and were given up to three days of outpatient sick leave.”

As a precautionary measure, the cookhouse and dormitories were thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, SCDF said.

“SCDF takes a serious view of the well-being of our personnel, and is working with the relevant authorities to investigate the incident.”

The cookhouse will remain closed pending the investigation and alternative meal arrangements have been made, it added.

SFA will not hesitate to take enforcement action against errant food operators, said SFA and MOH.

“Food safety is a joint responsibility. While SFA puts in place and enforces the regulatory measures, food operators must play their part by adhering to good food safety practices.”