Vol. 538 No. 1
148 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 101 of 10 May 2001 and an article in a publication (details supplied), he will ensure that his Department has all available information relating to asthma and treatment of asthma sufferers; if he will take action, if necessary, as a result of his Department's investigation of the reports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17335/01]
The research findings in the article referred to by the Deputy are not new. It has been known for several years that dog and cat dander, as well as other animal antigens, are common triggers for allergic attacks in children. The principal added benefit of this latest research is that it quantifies the problem in the United States.
It is standard practice for Irish medical practitioners to check children with severe asthma for allergies to these common household antigens, including animal dander, and advise control measures accordingly.
