WITH 126 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) here, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has said that this may signal the start of the community spread of the virus.

A statement from the ministry late Saturday night said: "While our containment strategy has significantly delayed the entry and spread of the virus in Singapore and we will continue with this strategy for as long as it is practical to do so, it may be a matter of time before we see more cases arising from local transmission.

"We are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to handle the increased number of cases when it happens."

In the meantime, there is much the community can do in terms of prevention. "Singaporeans can protect themselves and others by practising good personal hygiene and being socially responsible," a spokesman said.

On Saturday, the MOH confirmed 23 new cases, comprising eight local cases and 15 with travel history, including an Asian Youth Games athlete from the Philippines.

Of the total 112 imported cases, the majority came from Australia; 48 imported cases of the virus originated from Australia.

MOH urged those who are planning to travel to check its website for the latest on the list of countries with confirmed cases of H1N1 so that they can make considered decisions on whether to proceed with their travel plans.

For more information on the virus, the public can access MOH's website at www.moh.gov.sg, or the ministry's hotline on 1800-333-9999.

For more my paper stories click here.