HC Deb 11 May 1927 vol 206 cc376-7
36. Mr. THURTLE

asked the Minister of Health in how many of the cases of small-pox which have ended fatally this year vaccination had taken place?

Sir K. WOOD

Since the reply given on this subject to the hon. and gallant Member for Chelmsford (Lieut.-Colonel Howard-Bury) on 9th instant, a further death has occurred among patients suffering from small-pox. Of the 28 cases which have ended fatally this year, 21 were unvaccinated at the time when they acquired infection, while seven had been vaccinated in infancy. The ages of the latter at the time when they were attacked by small-pox were: 22, 23, 44, 50, 54, 58 and 62, respectively.

Mr. HARRIS

Is the hon. Gentleman quite satisfied that the diagnosis proved conclusively that all these cases were small-pox?

Sir K. WOOD

I have no reason to doubt the information I have received.

Colonel DAY

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether any of these cases of small-pox were contracted abroad?

Sir K. WOOD

That is another matter. The hon. Member had better put down a question.

Dr. WATTS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the types of cases in the last few months have been more virulent than any we have had for some time?

Sir K. WOOD

Yes, I have seen a statement to that effect.