SINGAPORE - A shocking health incident has unfolded at E-Bridge Pre-School's Circuit Road branch in MacPherson, where a total of 17 young children and two employees are grappling with suspected food poisoning.

Signs of gastroenteritis emerged on September 9, raising alarm bells among parents and health officials alike. Fortunately, no hospitalizations have occurred as authorities launch a thorough investigation.

In a joint statement released on September 14, the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA), the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA), and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) confirmed that they are closely monitoring the situation.

The ECDA is taking extra precautions by collaborating with the pre-school's management to ensure both student and staff safety, emphasizing the importance of adhering to strict infection prevention and control protocols.

"Pre-schools must comply with the food safety and hygiene requirements outlined in the Early Childhood Development Centres Code of Practice," the statement asserted.

Additionally, the SFA is doubling down on its efforts to promote proper food safety practices in educational institutions and warns that enforcement actions will be taken against those who violate these standards.

The Straits Times is actively seeking further details from E-Bridge Pre-School, which boasts over 20 centres across Singapore and is part of the renowned EtonHouse International Education Group.

Gastroenteritis, the condition affecting these children, is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines that can stem from infections linked to contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Symptoms typically include fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

This alarming situation echoes previous incidents, as just last month, two separate food poisoning cases were reported at different pre-schools in Singapore, with 17 children and an employee at Mulberry Learning’s Punggol center also falling ill.