Bernard Allen
Question:293 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health the steps he proposes to take in relation to the late reporting of AIDS cases in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Reporting of AIDS Cases.
Unlike other Western European countries, late reporting of cases of AIDS has so far not been a major problem here.
Surveillance of HIV is the most important element in planning AIDS programmes. At present improved surveillance of HIV is under consideration and a sub-group of the national AIDS strategy committee is at present examining the question of such surveillance. The group is considering the most appropriate method to determine as quickly and as accurately as possible the spread of HIV in the community. I expect to have an interim report available to me in the near future.
My Department's Health Promotion Unit have recently issued a new video which will increase public awareness of AIDS. I would hope that the type of information provided in the video would encourage people who feel they might be infected to come forward for testing.