Singapore detects 12 more measles cases, including 4 in a cluster

In February, Singapore introduced tighter measures such as mandatory isolation for measles cases, contact tracing and quarantine of some close contacts, after detecting a rise in infections.

“Singapore remains at risk of imported infections with high measles rates overseas. CDA will therefore implement enhanced public health measures for measles as the new baseline from Apr 1, 2026,” the agency said.

Mandatory testing of all suspect measles cases will continue, with an additional provision that will bar those in high-risk settings from returning to school or work until they test negative for measles.

Mandatory isolation of laboratory-confirmed cases and contact testing will continue, CDA added.

Close contacts who are susceptible to infection, namely those who are unvaccinated or without evidence of immunity, will no longer be quarantined from Apr 1. 

They will be offered post-exposure prophylaxis to reduce their risk of infection and prevent further transmission.

Those who work or study in high-risk settings will also be subject to additional measures, including leave of absence from childcare centres and redeployment to non-patient-facing roles in healthcare facilities, for up to 21 days from their last exposure.

“While we may occasionally detect small clusters with limited spread given the global rise in measles cases, the risk of large outbreaks in the community remains low due to the high vaccination coverage and herd immunity among Singapore residents,” the agency said.

“CDA will closely monitor Singapore’s measles situation and adjust our public health measures as it evolves, to prevent community transmission and maintain our herd immunity.”

In January, three genetically linked measles cases with no known contact with each other were discovered.

“Following investigations, CDA has found no evidence of further linked cases, or transmission into the community.

“However, we must continue to be vigilant as Singapore remains at risk of imported infections with high measles rates overseas,” it added.