No reported cases of Singaporeans with radiation illness

14 April 2012, Straits Times

'Does a regulatory body track reported cases in Singapore?'

Recently, there were online stories of Singaporeans who felt unwell upon returning from short holidays in Japan, only to be told by doctors that they were suffering from radiation sickness and could not conceive for up to 10 years. While these stories may have no basis in fact, have there been any reported cases of radiation sickness among Singaporeans who have travelled to or lived in Japan since March last year? Are doctors here obliged by regulations to report cases of radiation sickness to the authorities? Does a regulatory body track reported cases of radiation sickness in Singapore?

Ms Julia Yap

Reply from MOH

We have received several inquiries regarding radiation-related sickness associated with travel to Japan ('Does a regulatory body track reported cases in Singapore?' by Ms Julia Yap; April 14).

None of these cases has been substantiated.

Medical practitioners have been informed to refer suspected cases of radiation sickness associated with travel to Japan to public hospitals for assessment and management. We will be notified of confirmed cases. To date, there have been no reported cases of Singaporeans with radiation illness due to travel to Japan.

The public can also refer to the information on radiation from the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan at MOH's website at www.pqms.moh.gov.sg/apps/fcd_faqmain.aspx and the Japan National Tourism Organisation's website for advice on travel to Japan at www.japantravelinfo.com/news/news_item.php?newsid=431.