Bernard J. Durkan
Question:329 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is possible in present circumstances to combat an epidemic here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14440/03]
Written Answers. - Infectious Disease Control.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:331 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the procedures for dealing with infectious diseases; if early diagnosis is achievable; the action which follows diagnosis; the extent to which isolation accommodation is available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14442/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 329 and 331 together.
The National Disease Surveillance Centre, NDSC, plays a key role in the prevention and management of infectious diseases. The Irish approach to infectious diseases outbreaks and epidemics is based on sound internationally accepted principles such as: preventative measures; early identification of cases; effective clinical care including good hospital infection control appropriate surveillance; contract tracing and management of contacts. The procedures for dealing with infectious diseases are based on these principles.
Many infectious diseases can be prevented by vaccine use. Immunisation against infectious disease has probably saved more lives than any other public health intervention, apart from the provision of clean water. Improvements in living standards have reduced the mortality from infectious diseases, but immunisation has also played a large role in the reduction of disease incidence. It would not have been possible to eradicate smallpox without vaccine, and the eradication of polio in the European region is also largely due to immunisation.
In recent years, improved economic and social conditions, together with public health action, have virtually eliminated the pandemics of communicable diseases.
I have in the past and will continue to establish expert committees-groups to advise on the most appropriate action given the particular circumstances of the outbreak concerned. Guidelines and protocols on the management of many different types of outbreaks have been developed based on the principles referred to. These guidelines also take into account guidance published by the World Health Organisation, WHO, the Centres for Disease Control, CDC, in the USA and a number of other reputable international public health bodies. Most outbreaks are dealt with the establishment of an outbreak control team, who manage the outbreak and put in place whatever control measures are needed.
The issue of diagnosis of infectious diseases is a matter for the appropriate clinicians concerned. In relation to isolation, in recent years it has become the practice to refer and treat patients with infectious disease in acute general hospitals. It is now generally agreed by the medical profession, including the Medical Council, that an acute general hospital is the appropriate setting for the delivery of this service. My Department has been advised by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards that there is considerable response capacity in place for isolation and accommodation facilities should they be required for the management of patients with infectious diseases in an in-patient setting, that is, single rooms with their own bathroom facilities and/or cohort placement of patients in a dedicated area.
Unfortunately at present the capacity of the Eastern Regional Health Authority, the health boards and the National Disease Surveillance Centre to respond to any problems in the area of infectious diseases is compromised due to the ongoing industrial action by public health doctors. Every effort is being made to resolve this dispute.
Question No. 330 answered with Question No. 283.
Question No. 331 answered with Question No. 329.