§ 18. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action has been taken to combat the outbreak of yellow fever in villages near Enugu, Nigeria, where over 200 Africans have died of this disease; and whether there has been regular routine inspection of mosquito breeding grounds and educational propaganda aimed at removing the source of disease.
§ Mr. LytteltonA well-organised and comparatively large staff has done everything possible to prevent the disease from spreading and about half a million people have already been vaccinated. No cases have been discovered during the last month and there is every sign that the epidemic is now under control. All appropriate measures of the kind indicated in the second part of the Question have been, and continue to be, taken.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes it not seem likely that the deaths of these 200 Africans were due to some negligence in what are called the regular routine inspections of mosquito breeding grounds; and is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that everything was done before the unfortunate deaths of these 200 Africans?
§ Mr. LytteltonThe first report of the epidemic was received at the regional medical headquarters on 19th November, and from the information that I have I am satisfied that as soon as that was known every step was taken as speedily as possible.