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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 14 Feb 1995

Vol. 449 No. 1

Written Answers. - Meningitis Cases.

Seán Haughey

Question:

79 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health the number of cases of meningitis involving children which have been diagnosed in 1995; the number of deaths from meningitis in 1995; if he has satisfied himself that sufficient information is being made available to parents in relation to this illness; the action, if any, that is being taken to prevent further cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3262/95]

Limerick East): This year 43 cases of bacterial meningitis has been reported to my Department for the period ending 27 January. There were 5 deaths notified to my Department for the same period.

Health boards have been advised to widely disseminate my Department's leaflet on meningitis towards informing the public and professionals of the symptoms of the disease, the treatment of cases or suspected cases of the disease and the prevention of infection in contacts of cases or suspected cases. In addition, the printed media, radio and television provided excellent support and co-operation to my Department in publicising information about the condition and the steps to be taken by parents, teachers and guardians of children.

I am satisfied that the necessary measures have been taken by me, by my Department and by the health boards to inform the public about the current incidence of the disease and, in particular, about the need for vigilance for early symptoms and the importance of early treatment in ensuring a complete recovery.
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