Authorities in Singapore have revealed that a traveller flying from New Zealand, and who tested positive for Covid-19 in South Korea after transiting through Singapore, is unlikely to have caught the virus here.

Incubation period was too short

According to a media release by New Zealand's Ministry of Health on July 27, South Korean authorities initially believed that the traveller was infected during the transit in Changi Airport.

The individual left New Zealand on July 21, and arrived in South Korea on July 22, after transiting through Singapore.

The traveller reportedly had no symptoms, but was diagnosed positive with Covid-19 upon arrival in South Korea.

New Zealand's Ministry of Health did not rule out the possibility that the traveller may have been infected in New Zealand.

However, a joint statement by Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Civil Aviation Authority Singapore (CAAS) on July 31 show that it is unlikely the traveller was infected in Singapore.

As the traveller was in transit for less than 24 hours, the incubation period would have been too short.

The average incubation period for Covid-19 is typically five to six days, but can take up to 14 days, according to the World Health Organisation.

The statement said that the source of infection remains unknown, and investigations by the various authorities are ongoing.

MOH and CAAS said that Singapore is in contact with both New Zealand and South Korea authorities for further information.

In the meantime as an added precaution, contact tracing in Singapore is being conducted.

Authorities said that strict precautionary measures are implemented on all passengers transiting through the airport.

"Stringent measures are instituted to ensure that the passengers transiting through Changi Airport are segregated from the other passengers at all stages of their journey – both in flight, and at the airport. In addition, all passengers travelling through Changi Airport are required to wear masks at all times, while airport staff wear personal protective equipment when interacting with passengers. Safe distancing, temperature taking for passengers and staff are also enforced."

All transit passengers, including those who had arrived on the same flight as the individual, adhered to these precautionary measures.

Top photo from Wikipedia