NEA Responded to Eye Irritation Incident in Primary School; Said Air Quality is Normal

Eye irritation does not occur without a cause.

Or at least, that’s what they surmise.

As such, it’s little wonder why Singaporeans have been out on a witch hunt, following a startling revelation: 70 students at Springdale Primary School reportedly experienced eye irritation on Monday (25 January 2021).

“Something must have done it,” citizens reasoned. “And considering how it’s eye irritation…

“Could it be air pollution, a notion we’re all too familiar with?”

Well, as it turns out…

That’s not quite the case, which genuinely mystifies the entire case.

NEA Responded to Eye Irritation Incident in Primary School; Said Air Quality is Normal

The closest monitoring station to Springdale Primary School has revealed that air quality readings currently rest within the “normal” range.

The notion was unveiled to the public by the National Environment Agency (NEA), on Wednesday (27 January 2021). The statement came after an extreme case of “eye irritation” in Springdale Primary – whereby 70 students mysteriously suffered from the condition.

The cause has yet to be ascertained. NEA is currently working with the school to determine the reason behind it.

“NEA has not received similar feedback in the vicinity of the school, or any upsurge in air quality feedback during the time of the incident,” said the agency.

After the incident broke out, the school said that it “immediately attended to the students and alerted their parents”.

Though several students required medical attention, most of the affected students were able to return to school the next day.

A few are reportedly recuperating at home.

The school stated that it will continue to observe the situation of those affected.

As for the classrooms, they have since been “thoroughly cleaned and ventilated”.

Eye Irritation

There are several factors that could contribute to eye irritation. According to Healthlinethe main ones would be:

  • Allergies
  • Irritants
  • Foreign Objects
  • Digital Eye Strain
  • Dry Eye
  • Infections
  • Styes
  • Blocked Tear Duct

Considering the circumstances, I can safely say that we can cross out everything except allergies, irritants, foreign objects, digital eye strain and infections.

Add in the perceived “normal” air quality readings and you can all but dismiss the air-related reasons, though things like dust mites and pet dander could still be a factor.

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