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| Singapore PM says SARS could be worst crisis ever |
| CCTV.COM 2003-04-20 10:04:11 |
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Singapore's Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong has announced new stricter measures on how to prevent those under home quarantine for SARS from flouting the orders to stay home, including fines and prison terms beginning next week.
Singapore now has 444 people under quarantine. Some 12 people have broken home quarantine so far, prompting the government to use cameras and electronic wrist tags to monitor them remotely.
16 people have died of SARS in Singapore and there have been 172 reported cases.
The outbreak has also dealt a heavy blow to the island nation's economy. Goh estimated the virus has cost the city－state 1.5 billion Singapore dollars, or about 850 million US dollars.
On Saturday, Goh said the strict measures are needed to address the "crisis of fear" and to raise confidence in the safety of Singapore as a destination for tourists, investors and businessmen.
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Editor: Xiao Wei CCTV.com
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