MOH investigates death of a two-year-old boy

25 Nov 2009

1. The Ministry of Health (MOH) is currently investigating the death of a two year-old child whose tracheal fluids tested positive for H1N1. MOH was notified of the death yesterday. Post mortem investigations on the cause of death are on-going.

2. The child was found to have fever and cough on 22 Nov 2009. His condition worsened on 23 Nov 09 when he was sent by an ambulance to a hospital. He passed away on the same day.

3. The deceased attended a pre-school class at Lycée Français de Singapour. As a precautionary measure, the principal of the school has decided to close the preschool classes until further notice.

4. Meanwhile, MOH is working with the school to identify if there are any clusters of illness among the students.

Ministry’s Advice

5. The Ministry would like to stress the importance of maintaining high standards of personal and environmental hygiene. If the child is unwell, parents are advised to seek medical advice and keep them at home. Parents should ensure that their children adopt good practices such as washing hands with soap and water, especially after contact with respiratory secretions (eg, after sneezing and coughing).

Ministry of Health