§ Mr. Douglasasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the heavy incidence of influenza and the shortage of doctors and nurses, he is taking steps to make widely known the measures which should be taken to avoid infection and simple and safe methods of treatment which will mitigate the severity of the attack?
§ Mr. WillinkThere is no certain way of avoiding influenza. Well-balanced diet, adequate sleep, as much fresh air as possible, the avoidance of stuffy, crowded rooms, and care in coughing and1148W sneezing are obvious precautions which have long and persistently been recommended by my Department and Medical Officers of Health. We can best help one another by the precautions we take in these matters and, in the difficult conditions of war-time, by mutual help in care of sickness. Arrangements have been made with the Services for temporary deferment of the call-up of doctors. I have, in consultation with other Departments and with voluntary organisations, considered what can be done to assist, particularly in regard to medical and nursing services, special help in the home and arrangements for meals: I am issuing a circular informing local authorities of this action and making suggestions for their guidance.