Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Mar 1993

Vol. 428 No. 5

Written Answers. - Tuberculosis Statistics.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

219 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health the total number of recorded cases and deaths due to TB in Ireland for the years 1952, 1962, 1972, 1982 and 1992; the percentage of TB in Ireland compared to our European partners; if he has satisfied himself that vaccination is necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The number of tuberculosis cases and deaths is as follows:

Year	Tuberculosis Cases	Tuberculosis Deaths
1952	6,795	1,579
1962	2,820	426
1972	1,147	183
1982	975	119
1990	624	53
1992	Not available	Not available

Information on the prevalence of tuberculosis in Ireland compared to our European partners is not available. 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 vaccination, notification, surveillance, treatment and contact tracing procedures.