Vol. 512 No. 1
159 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to any public health issue associated with infectious diseases; the issues raised; the infectious diseases involved; the information on the matter which has been co-ordinated by the disease surveillance unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25584/99]
A wide range of public health issues arise in relation to infectious diseases and policy in this area is guided by the appropriate expert advice and by international best practice. My Department receives advice from expert committees in relation to certain infectious disease issues, including policy in relation to immunisation, bacterial meningitis, tuberculosis and CJD, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
The Infectious Diseases Regulations, 1981, specify those diseases which are statutorily notifiable and the powers and responsibilities of health boards in relation to their prevention and control. Immunisation is also an essential tool in combating infectious disease and the primary childhood immunisation programme provides for the immunisation of children free of charge against a range of serious infectious diseases.
The National Disease Surveillance Centre was established in October 1998. Initially, it will be responsible for the surveillance of communicable diseases, such as meningitis, tuberculosis and foodborne diseases such as salmonella and e.coli O157. Its functions include collaboration with and supporting the health boards in the control of infectious disease, the development of guidelines and protocols and undertaking research.
