Special COVID-19 testing operations conducted in two HBD housing blocks

Singapore, 24 May 2021 – The Ministry of Health (MOH) are conducting polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing at the housing blocks as stated below. These are blocks where infected cases have been located, and testing is done as a precaution to prevent any possible spread in the community. In the event that a positive case is detected, MOH will isolate the case, identify all close contacts, test and quarantine them to protect the community from further transmission.

So far, there is only one Housing and Development Board (HDB) block in Singapore with infected cases seen in more than two households. The tests are typically completed within three days.

Block 506 Hougang Avenue 8

MOH had identified 10 COVID-19 cases, from four different households, residing at 506 Hougang Avenue 8. They are largely Persons Under Quarantine who turned positive for COVID-19. This means that they have been isolated early and ring-fenced, and not likely to be moving around while being infectious. Nevertheless, MOH took all the necessary public health measures to prevent any further spread to the community.

MOH has just concluded mandatory PCR tests for 407 residents and visitors of the block. This was done from 21 to 22 May 2021. Thus far, one individual was found to be positive for COVID-19. Individuals who missed their test can take mandatory free swab tests today, 24 May 2021.

Block 559 Pasir Ris Street 51

Adopting the same cautious approach, MOH will be conducting mandatory PCR tests today, 24 May 2021, for all 243 residents of Block 559 Pasir Ris Street 51, as four COVID-19 cases have been detected in two different households living in the block. Residents are advised to go to Coral Regional Screening Centre (Former Coral Primary School) between on 24 May, 9-12 noon, and 1-4 pm for their tests.

Stepped-up measures by HDB and NEA

HDB also deployed safe distancing ambassadors to ensure that safe management measures are in place in the swab ops centre set up at the void deck of the block. Officers from National Environmental Agency (NEA) were deployed to closely monitor the cleaning and disinfection works carried out at Block 506 Hougang Avenue 8 and Block 559 Pasir Ris Street 51 by the TCs and their cleaning contractors, to ensure that they were performed in accordance with NEA’s guidelines.

The residents are not under quarantine. They are allowed to leave their homes and continue with activities allowed under the prevailing Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) measures. Delivery of goods and services such as cylinder gas, food and general repair works to their premises can still carry on with the appropriate safe management measures and wearing of masks.

– Construction+ Online

Source: MOH