HC Deb 03 December 1902 vol 115 cc1065-6
MR. WEIR

I beg to ask the Lord Advocate whether he is aware that the outbreak of typhus and typhoid fever at North Tolsta, island of Lewis, has already resulted in upwards of fifty cases, as many as six persons in one family being affected; will he state what steps are being taken to stamp out the discase, whether the patients are isolated; and if so, where.

*MR. A. GRAHAM MURRAY

The numbers mentioned in my answer given on 20th November† referred to the period since 1st October only. In the early summer the cases were so mild that they attracted little attention, but when they proved to be infectious the local authority instituted an inspection, saw that all isolation practicable was carried out, strongly urged ablution of persons, and supplied disinfectants. In cases of typhoid fever, drains were cleaned out. Tolsta, being thirteen miles distant from Stornoway, removal to hospital was not considered advisable, especially in view of the difficulties of transit in such a district.

MR. WEIR

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are no means of † See page 22. isolating fever patients at this place, where there are only mud cabins. Will he further inquire?

[No answer was returned.]