§ Mr. Steenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will make a statement on the extent of the public health problem and environmental hazard caused by toxocariasis transmitted by dogs.
§ Dr. OwenI am advised that the indications are that cases of toxocariasis are rare in proportion to the number of pets kept; transmission of infection is rarely followed by symptoms. But the situation is being kept under review in the light of the latest evidence. Minimising health hazards that might arise from dogs is one of many subjects currently being considered by an inter-Departmental Working Party under the Chairmanship of the Department of the Environment.