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HPB, NEA should launch campaign on eating in hygienic way

We now live in a world of deadly viruses and drug-resistant bacteria. (“Ebola: Are we prepared?”; Talking Point)

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David See Leong Kit

We now live in a world of deadly viruses and drug-resistant bacteria. (“Ebola: Are we prepared?”; Talking Point)

Singapore, an air hub and densely populated island, is particularly vulnerable to infectious disease threats. To protect themselves and their children, Singaporeans must understand how some diseases are spread.

For example, in its 1994 Health Educator publication, our Health Ministry confirmed that by sharing food, referring to the traditional Chinese habit of dipping chopsticks and spoons into common dishes, “we are likely to share saliva as well, with any germs or viruses in it”.

The use of serving spoons, separate soup bowls and sauce dishes, at home and when eating out, was recommended.

Indeed, saliva can transmit many types of viruses and bacteria; viral and bacterial infections can cause certain cancers; and adults can also contract the hand, foot and mouth disease through sharing food.

This public health issue affects all Singaporeans. During an infectious disease outbreak, non-Chinese Singaporeans would also face a risk of infection in crowded places.

Fighting disease threats requires a commitment to change at the top levels of the Health Promotion Board and the National Environment Agency.

The chief executives of the two bodies should conduct an effective campaign on eating the hygienic way and use licensing clout to compel restaurants and hawkers to provide serving spoons for all common dishes as a standard practice.

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