§ Mr. Knoxasked the Secretary of State for Social Services by what means information on immunisation against infectious disease is disseminated to the health professions; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeA new edition of the memorandum "Immunisation Against Infectious Disease" is being issued today by our Department to all health authorities and family doctors. Similar arrangements are being made in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The memorandum was last issued in full in 1972. It includes revised guidance on contra-indications to immunisation.
It contains the most up to date information on the 15 vaccines most commonly used in the United Kingdom, including the seven recommended for use during childhood.
Immunisation is one of the most effective measures available to prevent illness. Because of its success, many diseases such as poliomyelitis, diphtheria and tetanus have been virtually eradicated in this country. Much still needs to be done to improve the uptake of some immunisations notably against whooping cough, measles and rubella. I hope the issue of this memorandum will help us achieve a better performance generally and with these diseases in particular.