THERE have been complaints from some quarters that the measures being taken to contain the spread of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus are over-zealous.

Some have criticised the Government and said that it is over-reacting.

So far, much is still not known about the virus. H1N1 remains elusive. Nobody knows when, or if, it will mutate, and what it will mutate into.

Bearing this in mind, Singaporeans should not be too cavalier when it comes to the virus.

It is wiser not to underestimate its virulence, because we are still in the early stages of the outbreak.

So, until the disease is properly understood, it is better to err on the side of caution. In other words, precautions
have to taken.

To top it off, the H1N1 flu outbreak came at a time when Singapore was hosting the Asian Youth Games.

They will be followed by the Formula One Grand Prix and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation CEO Summit.

Singapore will be under the international spotlight during these events.

Any shortcomings in how the disease is handled could affect Singapore's reputation.

I am sure the Government does not want to be in a position where it is accused of being lackadaisical about managing the H1N1 threat.

Mr Sebastian Tan

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