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Residents worried about spread of TB to family members

SINGAPORE — Some residents TODAY spoke to were shocked by the news of a cluster of six multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) cases emerging at their block in Ang Mo Kio, expressing fear that their children or elderly family members could be vulnerable.

The MOH began informing residents of the affected block yesterday evening, with officers (in black) and members of Ang Mo Kio Town Council making door-to-door visits. Photo: Jason Quah

The MOH began informing residents of the affected block yesterday evening, with officers (in black) and members of Ang Mo Kio Town Council making door-to-door visits. Photo: Jason Quah

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SINGAPORE — Some residents TODAY spoke to were shocked by the news of a cluster of six multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) cases emerging at their block in Ang Mo Kio, expressing fear that their children or elderly family members could be vulnerable.

Said accounts assistant Ms Eka, who was at home when Ministry of Health officials visited her block to inform residents of the cases: “I wouldn’t want my mum to go out.”

When TODAY went down to Block 203 on Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, MOH officials were going door to door with members of Ang Mo Kio Town Council, handing out advisories on the situation to the residents.

The advisories informed residents of the cases, and that free TB screening would be available for all residents of the block from today.

It also explained to residents how TB was spread — with prolonged and close contact — and what the screening would entail (a chest X-ray and a blood test).

Member of Parliament for Ang Mo Kio GRC Koh Poh Koon was also spotted visiting some flats and speaking to residents, but he declined to speak to the media.

Ms Eka said she was surprised by the number of cases, which was not specified on the advisories.

Another resident, Ms Mages, said that she was worried that her three children could be more vulnerable to the disease. Added the 43-year-old salesperson: “The Government should be putting in more effort to inform us responsibly what is going on.”

But Mr Charlie Chan, a resident of 16 years, said that he was not worried as long as precautions are taken. “The Government does care for us and we should just follow the precautionary steps that they suggest,” he said. ILIYAS JUANDA

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