§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidance he intends to issue on the dangers arising from low immunity to poliomyelitis, in particular to persons travelling abroad; what representations he has received; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EnnalsI am grateful to my hon. Friend for sending me a copy of Dr. Spencer's letter of 20th May to the Editor ofTV Times.
In a statement on 1st March I urged parents not to play Russian roulette with polio, and my recent speeches in this House have conveyed a similar message.
My Department encourages tour operators and travel agents to ensure that advice is given to intending travellers about precautions against all diseases that may be encountered abroad. Advice on polio vaccination is contained in my Department's leaflet "Notice to Travellers—Health Protection" which is supplied to the Association of British Travel Agents, airlines and other bodies in the travel industry. It says that polio vaccination
is advisable for travellers of any age going anywhere other than to Europe, Canada, and the USA. Even if you have been vaccinated against poliomyelitis in the past, your doctor may advise a reinforcing dose as a precaution".