Health authorities warn misconceptions may worsen rising respiratory infections among children
The reopening of schools at the start of the year often brings more than fresh notebooks and uniforms. It also coincides with a sharp rise in infectious diseases, prompting renewed warnings from health authorities about the importance of proper prevention.
Rising Infection Numbers at Polyclinics
The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) reported a notable increase in acute respiratory infection cases in early 2025. Polyclinics recorded an average of 3,392 cases per day during the week of Jan 26 to Feb 1, up from 2,470 cases daily about two months earlier. The spike aligns with the school reopening period, when close contact among children increases transmission risks.
Misconceptions Undermining Prevention Efforts
Despite clear public health guidance, the CDA noted that some parents continue to rely on ineffective preventive measures due to persistent misconceptions. Dr Zubaidah Said, director of the CDA’s Air and Droplet Borne Division, highlighted these issues in interviews with The Straits Times, Shin Min Daily News, and Berita Harian.
Hand Sanitizers Are Not All Equal
One common misunderstanding is that all hand sanitizers eliminate germs effectively. Dr Zubaidah explained that alcohol-free or natural sanitizers do not kill a wide range of bacteria and viruses. Research shows that sanitizers must contain at least 60 percent alcohol to be effective. Proper hand-washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds remains the gold standard.
Why Hand-Washing Still Matters
Thorough hand-washing creates friction that reaches areas often missed, such as between fingers. Drying hands afterward is equally important, as wet hands spread germs more easily. This is critical for young children, as hands are a primary transmission route for illnesses like hand, foot, and mouth disease. Influenza viruses can survive on hard surfaces, such as doorknobs, for up to 48 hours.
Fever-Free Does Not Mean Infection-Free
Another misconception is that children are no longer contagious once their fever subsides. Dr Zubaidah warned that infections can still spread if symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or rashes persist. In HFMD cases, children may shed the virus in their stool for up to 12 weeks after symptoms resolve, making hygiene essential even during recovery.
Respiratory Etiquette and Mask Use
Respiratory viruses spread easily through droplets released during coughing or sneezing, as well as through contaminated surfaces. Covering coughs with tissues or the elbow, disposing of tissues properly, and washing hands immediately help limit transmission. Wearing a mask while recovering can add another layer of protection when infectious status is uncertain.
Vitamins Are Not a Shield Against Viruses
Some parents believe vitamin supplements can prevent infections. Dr Zubaidah clarified that while supplements may support nutrition, they do not stop viral transmission. Vaccination remains the most effective way to build protective antibodies. The influenza vaccine is recommended for children aged six months to five years and for those with chronic conditions such as asthma.
The rise in early-year infections highlights how misconceptions can weaken public health defenses. Clear guidance from health authorities underscores that proper hygiene, responsible behavior during illness, and vaccination remain critical to protecting families and communities across Singapore and the wider region.
Sources: Straits Times (2025)
Keywords: Respiratory Infections, Hand Hygiene, Mask Wearing, HFMD, Influenza Vaccine, Schoolchildren Health
