No need for closure of centre in Bukit Batok after TB case reported: PCF Sparkletots

SINGAPORE — A case of active tuberculosis was found at the PAP Community Foundation (PCF) Sparkletots at Block 293, Bukit Batok St 21,  the preschool confirmed on Tuesday (Dec 17).

But as there is no further risk of the TB bacteria spreading to other people in the centre, the Tuberculosis Control Unit (TBCU) has advised PCF Sparkletots that closure of centre is not necessary, PCF Sparkletots said in a statement.

PCF Sparkletots said that it was informed by the TBCU of the case on Dec 10, and that the patient has started treatment. It did not say whether the patient is a student or a staff member.

A Ministry of Health (MOH) spokesperson said that it was notified of the case on Nov 26 and that the patient was placed on medical leave immediately after the diagnosis. 

There is no further risk of TB transmission to the preschool, MOH added.

TB is an infectious disease, but it cannot spread via contact with surfaces or items that have been touched by the infected person. Symptoms of TB include persistent cough, fatigue, weight loss, fever and night sweats.

Employees and children in the preschool identified as close contacts to the infected patient were screened the day after the school was notified, PCF Sparkletots added.

“Adhering to patient confidentiality, screening test results will only be released to the relevant staff and parents.”

MOH said results of the screening are currently pending.

“In this case, only persons in close and prolonged contact with the infectious individual require screening by TBCU. There is no need for other persons to be tested,” the ministry added.

The pre-school has issued a letter to inform parents about the case along with information on TB from TBCU.

PCF staff also organised a briefing for parents, which was conducted by staff from TBCU, on the contact-screening process and related questions. The contact details of TBCU were also given to parents.

The PCF spokesperson said: “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and support the parents and children in our centre.”

MOH said there is no need to close places that have been visited by a TB patient, as diagnosed patients would be on medical leave and getting treatment.

“Early detection and treatment through screening of close contacts can help prevent further spread of TB,” the ministry said.

“Workplace or school contacts found to have latent TB infection are also not infectious, and will be followed up by TBCU and managed accordingly.”

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