Liz McManus
Ceist:117 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health the incidence of TB among patients and staff in the psychiatric and mental handicap services; and if he will give details of screening and other preventative services available.
Written Answers. - Incidence of TB.
There is a statutory requirement on all general practitioners to notify their local Director of Community Care/Medical Officer of Health (DCC/MOH) of all cases of tuberculosis. The DCC/MOHs in turn notify my Department of all cases reported to them as occurring in their area. No breakdown is given to my Department as to whether the cases being notified are in a psychiatric or mental handicap service. However in the event of a serious outbreak it would be normal for the DCC/MOH to communicate directly with the medical staff of my Department. The DCC/MOHs take whatever action they consider necessary in the interest of public health including contact tracing and prophylactic treatment.
My Department's policy in relation to tuberculosis is being examined by a working party under the chairmanship of the Chief Medical Officer of my Department. The group is examining all aspects of tuberculosis including notification, surveillance, treatment and contact tracing procedures. Their main aim will be to ensure that there is an appropriate framework to deal with all problems associated with tuberculosis.