Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Oct 1993

Vol. 434 No. 4

Written Answers. - Measles Statistics.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

173 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Health the number of reported cases of measles in the State in 1993; whether there is an increase compared to the figure for 1992; and the steps, if any, he proposes to take to reduce the incidence of measles.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

It is vital that the common perception among parents that measles is a disease of little importance be corrected. Measles is one of the most dangerous childhood diseases and can result in tragic complications, including brain damage. MMR vaccine is available free from general practitioners and public health clinics.

The number of reported cases of measles increased from 179 in 1992 to 3,493 to date in 1993. In response to this, I conducted a mass media campaign to promote MMR vaccine and the health boards, through public health nurses and general practitioners, have asked parents to have their children vaccinated. The number of cases of measles has decreased since June when the epedemic of the disease was at its height.