Vol. 465 No. 3
112 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health the research, if any, that has been carried out in respect of myalgic encephalomyelitis; the progress and treatment available to myalgic encephalomyelitis sufferers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9715/96]
Limerick East): A diagnosis of myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome is made usually on the basis of new onset of fatigue, a characteristic pattern of symptoms, including those psychiatric illness, and the exclusion of other illness. The treatment for the condition is non-specific and is aimed at alleviating symptoms and helping patients to adjust to the chronic nature of the illness.
I am glad to report that awareness of ME is increasing among practitioners and the general population through such useful initiatives as ME awareness week. As agreed at a meeting with the ME Trust last year, my Department gave detailed information on ME provided by the ME Trust to the Irish College of General Practitioners for circulation to its members. Greater awareness of the condition should lead to faster diagnosis and more effective treatment.
