El Nino Brings Health Risks to Singapore

Singapore may see more cases of infectious diseases due to El Nino's hot and dry weather.

El Nino does not directly cause illness, but it helps spread diseases like dengue.

Hot weather can increase the spread of respiratory infections like RSV in air-conditioned spaces.

El Nino conditions are expected to last until October.

Higher temperatures can speed up the life cycle of mosquitoes that spread diseases.

An infectious diseases specialist expects more cases of dengue and other infections during El Nino.

El Nino may also worsen air quality and affect health.

Dust and pollutants can aggravate respiratory conditions like asthma.

Fine particles in the air can increase the risk of heart disease and worsen respiratory illnesses. People with heart or lung conditions are at higher risk.

Young children, older adults, and people with heart conditions are most at risk.

Doctors are also watching out for RSV infections, especially in infants.

RSV is a common cause of hospitalization in children under one in Singapore.

Severe RSV cases can lead to breathing problems or pneumonia.

RSV was one of the most common viruses found in children at local clinics in 2025.

A pediatrician said RSV starts with mild symptoms before causing breathing difficulties in infants.

Parents should watch for signs like rapid breathing or poor feeding in their babies.

The virus may not survive in hot conditions, but people crowding indoors can still spread it. However, good hygiene can help prevent this.

When it's hot, people crowd indoors and can pass the virus to each other. This happens in four main ways.

The risk is higher for babies born prematurely or with health conditions.

Parents and caregivers should wash their hands and avoid close contact with babies if they are sick. They should also keep a safe distance from young babies.

Expectant mothers can consider RSV vaccination to protect their babies.

Vaccination can help reduce the risk of severe RSV disease in babies.

Newborns may also receive a preventive antibody injection.

It's too early to tell if Singapore will see a rise in El Nino-related illnesses.

People with chronic conditions should go for regular check-ups and have enough medication.

Cleaning air-conditioners and air purifiers can help reduce bacteria and fungus.

Singapore has experienced El Nino before, so health authorities are prepared.

Healthcare professionals and government agencies should work together to take action when needed.

Singapore has dealt with El Nino before, so there's no need to panic.

Using past data on diseases can help guide what to expect during this El Nino event.

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