Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 13 Feb 1990

Vol. 395 No. 6

Written Answers. - BCG Vaccinations.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

76 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some Irish emigrants in the United States are having difficulties with the United States Health and Education authorities because their Irish BCGF vaccination is showing up as TB in medical examinations; that these emigrants are being required to take TB drugs which have serious side effects for many patients; the number of such cases which have been reported; and if he will take the necessary steps to assure the United States authorities that persons who have had the BCG vaccination are not TB carriers.

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Collins)

I am aware that a small number of cases involving Irish citizens who have encountered difficulties regarding the validity of their BCG vaccination have recently come to the attention of two of our Consulates General in the United States.

The problem arises because BCG vaccinations are not normally administered by US health authorities. Accordingly, when Irish immigrants react positively on being screened for tuberculosis, the US health authorities conducting the test assume that the person in question is in need of treatment for the disease. Particular problems arise for children who are required to undergo a course of treatment before being allowed to attend school.

My Department has been in communication with the Department of Health on the issue. In addition the Consultate General have made direct representations to the appropriate health authorities in the United States and these discussions are continuing. I would like to assure the House that this matter will be pursued until a satisfactory solution is found.