HC Deb 14 February 1966 vol 724 cc914-5
51. Mr. van Straubenzee

asked the Minister of Health whether he will make a statement on the present outbreak of influenza.

Mr. K. Robinson

Outbreaks of influenza have been reported from many parts of England and Wales since the middle of January, principally in the northern half of the country. Illness among schoolchildren has been a conspicuous feature, but a substantial number of adults has also been involved. Illnesses have generally been mild, lasting only a few days, but serious illnesses have occurred, particularly among the old. Over the country as a whole there is no evidence yet that the outbreak has begun to decline.

Mr. van Straubenzee

While thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask whether he is satisfied that the medical service has been able to stand up to the demands made upon it by the outbreak as he has described it?

Mr. Robinson

Yes, Sir—I think that in general that is so.

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