HC Deb 28 March 1958 vol 585 cc77-8W
Mr. Viant

asked the Minister of Health how many of the passengers and crew of the liner "Circassia" had already been vaccinated before they were inoculated with smallpox vaccine during the night of 20th March; and, in view of the fact that it is not claimed that it will prevent development of smallpox in those who are already infected with the disease, what was the purpose of this inoculation.

Mr. Walker-Smith

524 vaccinations were carried out at sea on the 14th March. All the ship's company and the majority of the 291 passengers had clear evidence of previous vaccination. The object of revaccination is to maintain or reinforce the immunity conferred by previous vaccination.

informal basis. It is not possible to say when the review will be completed or the total of patients concerned.

Forward to