HC Deb 24 February 1919 vol 112 cc1367-8
50. Sir KINGSLEY WOOD

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the necessity of circumscribing infection of the present influenza epidemic; and whether he proposes to take legislative or other action to secure the notification of the disease, the prevention of people suffering from it being employed in the preparation or handling of food or drink for human consumption, and of the education of the public as to what they should do to combat the epidemic?

Major ASTOR

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. It is, of course, desirable to circumscribe infection as far as practicable, and as to the various measures which may be adopted perhaps I may refer to the Memorandum on influenza which was prepared by the Medical Department of the Local Government Board, and issued last week. The Board's medical officers advise that notification of all influenza cases throughout the country at the present time would not provide an effective means of controlling the spread of the disease, and that any advantages which such notification would have would be outweighed by the additional burden placed on medical men and health officials. Influenzal pneumonia has, however, been made notifiable as from 1st March, with the special object of enabling assistance to be given in cases in need of the nursing or home assistance which local authorities can provide, or assist in providing. It is possible that influenza may be spread by handling articles of food and drink as suggested, but it does not seem practicable to remove this risk by legislative action.

Sir K. WOOD

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the urgent need for more medical men in certain industrial neighbourhoods, and will he do his best to expedite the demobilisation of medical men?

Major ASTOR

Yes.

An HON. MEMBER

In the event of it being found that the spread of the disease is due to insufficient food and clothing, will the hon. Gentleman make efforts to provide sufficient food and clothing for the poor that cannot get them to-day?

Major ASTOR

That matter shall be considered.

67. Captain LOSEBY

asked the President of the Local Government Board what steps he has taken or proposes to take, to meet the re-occurrence of the influenza scourge?

Major ASTOR

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which was given last Tuesday on this subject and also to the Memorandum which has been just issued to local authorities.