Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 15 Feb 1990

Vol. 395 No. 8

Written Answers. - TB Cases.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

79 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the total number of reported cases of TB in humans in each of the past ten years; the number of deaths, if any, which occurred; if the indications are that the disease is on the increase or decrease; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

The incidence of cases of tuberculosis, and of deaths arising from the disease, for the years 1978 to 1988 is as follows:

Year	Cases	Deaths
1978	1,151	206
1979	1,099	182
1980	1,152	158
1981	1,018	115
1982	975	120
1983	924	110
1984	843	73
1985	804	69
1986	602	68
1987	581	77
1988	552	56

It will be noted from the figures that there has been a continuous downward trend in the incidence of TB in humans during this period, and I am optimistic that this trend will continue. The level of TB in humans here is monitored on a regular basis by my Department to ensure all appropriate steps may be taken to minimise the spread of the disease.