THE Influenza A (H1N1) virus may not be lethal but it is even more infectious than the seasonal-flu virus. Flu viruses are highly unpredictable and flu outbreaks often come in waves.

The first wave may be mild but the next could suddenly turn lethal. Therefore, we should never be complacent. In less than two weeks, 15 H1N1 cases have already surfaced in Singapore.

Some victims used public transport, putting other passengers at great risk of infection.

As practically every household here has a TV set, the Ministry of Health could make use of TV broadcasts to educate and remind H1N1 victims to make use of the 993 ambulance service instead of public transport.

Every day, many students and adults rely on public transport. Buses and trains are often jam-packed.

The interiors of many buses are also often stuffy and dusty.

What is being done about the possibility of a widespread transmission of the H1N1 virus through the public-transport network?

Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan mentioned that the spread of H1N1 to the wider community, such as in schools, universities and army camps, is inevitable.

When this happens, contact tracing will be almost impossible.

Worried parents would like to know what plans the health and education ministries have in place to deal with the following scenarios, which are likely to take place in the second half of this year:

• At the end of the June holidays, there is a possibility of many returning travellers bringing in the H1N1 virus to Singapore.
• During the year-end seasonal- flu period, there might be difficulty in distinguishing between H1N1 and seasonal-flu cases, as both produce similar symptoms in patients. This might lead to confusion and panic.
• Many students will also be sitting together in the same space to take important examinations near the end of the year, such as the Primary School Leaving Examination and O-level, A-level and university examinations. What will be done about these situations?

Mr See Leong Kit

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