Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2017
2104. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on the WHO advice that Lariam, Malarone and doxycycline are all equally effective in preventing malaria in sub-Saharan Africa in view of the fact that in 2015 and 2016 20 to 25% of troops in sub-Saharan Africa were prescribed one of the alternatives to Lariam and there were no cases of malaria during that period. [37839/17]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that this matter was the subject of discussion at a Private Member’s Motion in the Dáil on 28th June last. As I indicated to the House at that time, Malaria is a serious disease and is a threat to any military force operating in areas where the disease is prevalent. It must be emphasised that the reason Defence Forces use a malaria chemoprophylaxis in the first instance is to protect personnel.
In the WHO International Travel and Health Handbook it provides for a range of anti-malarials which includes mefloquine (Lariam). All of these anti-malaria drugs have contraindications and side effects. As I have stressed in previous replies to Parliamentary Questions on this issue, significant precautions are taken by the Defence Forces Medical Officers in assessing the medical suitability of members of our Defence Forces to take any of the anti-malarial medications. It is the policy of the Defence Forces that individuals are screened by a Medical Officer for fitness for service overseas and medical suitability.
There are three anti-malarial drugs in use in the Defence Forces, namely, Lariam (mefloquine), Malarone and Doxycycline. The choice of medication for overseas deployment, including the use of Lariam, is a medical decision made by medical officers in the Defence Forces, having regard to the specific circumstances of the mission and the individual member of the Defence Forces.
A Working Group is currently examining issues arising in relation to the use of Lariam and has obtained advice from leading medical experts both national and international. I expect to receive the Group’s Report shortly and I can assure the Deputy that I will carefully consider its recommendations.
