51 pupils, 2 employees at 2 MOE kindergartens get gastroenteritis; Deli Hub Catering ops suspended

SINGAPORE – The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) are investigating two incidents of gastroenteritis reported at two MOE Kindergartens (MKs), after 53 people developed symptoms.

The affected kindergartens are MOE Kindergarten @ Springdale and MOE Kindergarten @ Gongshang, SFA, CDA, and the Ministry of Education (MOE) said in a joint statement on Oct 27.

MOE is also working closely with CDA, SFA and the affected kindergartens to assist in the investigations.

The 53 individuals – 51 students and two staff – were reported to have developed gastroenteritis symptoms between Oct 21 and Oct 23, after consuming food supplied by Deli Hub Catering.

The caterer was engaged by the Kindergarten Care (KCare) operator at the two MKs.

These individuals had either sought outpatient treatment, self-medicated, or recovered without treatment. None were hospitalised.

The two MKs have stepped-up hygiene and precautionary measures, including thorough cleaning and disinfection of the affected areas, the authorities said.

In view of the suspected ongoing transmission, SFA has suspended the food business operations of Deli Hub Catering with effect from Oct 27 until further notice.

The licensee is required to comply with measures during the suspension, including cleaning and sanitising the premises, equipment, and utensils.