asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how much money has been spent by his Department on (a) research into and (b) publicity and health education regarding meningococcal infections in (i) the last year and (ii) the last five years for which figures are available.

[pursuant to her reply, 11 February 1987, c. 283–84]: One specific research project (the Stonehouse meningococcal survey) has been funded to a total of £57,000. The Department has not initiated a central publicity or health education campaign, but district health authorities where the disease is prevalent have taken their own initiatives, while the public health laboratory service is working both on the development of a vaccine and on the nationwide surveillance of the different types of meningococci. It is not possible to provide figures for the cost of these activities.

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to encourage early diagnosis of meningococcal infections and an increase in public awareness of the disease and its symptoms.

[pursuant to her reply, 11 February 1987, c. 283–84]: These infections tend to develop very suddenly and therefore they rarely allow early diagnosis, but doctors are invariably anxious to have suspected cases of meningitis investigated and treated. This is borne out by the referral to hospital of many children who turn out not to have meningitis.Outbreaks of meningococcal infection tend to be sporadic and relatively rare, and in areas where cases do occur, the medical officer for environmental health takes responsibility for necessary action, including alerting the public and doctors as necessary.

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will add all meningococcal infections, and in particular meningococcal septicaemia, to the list of notifiable diseases; and if he will make a statement.

[pursuant to her reply, 11 February 1987, c. 283–84]: The list of notifiable diseases is kept under constant review. I have noted the views expressed recently by the medical profession on septicaemia, and the suggestion that it should be included is being considered.