List date(s) this work was published or aired.
Jul-12
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
Scores of boys developed eye infections (subsequently identified as keratoconjunctivitis) in the weeks following a rugby tournament they participated in in Singapore in April 2012. Many belonged to teams that had traveled to Singapore for the tournament. The coaches and parents linked to those visiting teams were particular critical of the Singapore-based rugby club which had organized the tournament, with many suggesting that better warnings or advisories should have been given especially as most of the games were played in very muddy conditions and that locally, in Singapore, such eye infections have often been seen in rugby players who have played in such conditions.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
Most of the article relied on interviews by phone and email, but also official press releases.
Explain types of human sources used.
The story used comments from the host tournament club’s president, an affected player’s parent, a prominent Singapore ophthalmologist, and a spokesperson for the country’s Ministry of Health.
Results:
It could be argued that this story has helped raise awareness among Singapore health professionals, including eye specialists, about the possible risk of eye infections associated with playing sports such as rugby in muddy conditions on the country’s sports fields.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
N/A
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Outbreaks in Singapore are a sensitive issue. You can try to get new information from the Ministry of Health or different comments other than what are featured in their press releases but don’t be surprised if you come up against a ‘brick wall’.