§ Mr. Marlowasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the incidence of injury to humans through toxicara canis; what action is being taken to reduce the incidence of this disease; and what is its cause.
§ Dr. VaughanToxicara canis is a common roundworm of dogs: eggs which are passed in faeces can give rise to an infection in men, toxocariasis. This is not a statutorily notifiable disease, but 15 cases were reported to the Public Health Laboratory Service during 1977 and 1978. In order to reduce the risk, dogs should be regularly dewormed and excluded from children's play areas. The Health Education Council leaflet, "You and Your Pet", gives useful advice on caring for dogs, and local authorities have powers to prohibit dogs from children's play areas.