Weil's Disease

HC Deb 10 February 1989 vol 146 cc850-1W

Ms. Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many case of Weil's disease have been treated over the last 10 years.

Mr. Freeman

Data on the number of cases treated are not available, but the number of cases in the last 10 years confirmed by the leptospira reference unit of the public health laboratory service is 444.

Ms. Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether any advice has been given to district health authorities and general practitioners alerting them to be vigilant about Weil's disease.

Mr. Freeman

The Department has not issued any advice to district health authorities or general practitioners about Weil's disease. However, as the organism can enter the human body when cuts and abrasions or the membrane of nose, mouth or eye come into contact with contaminated water, members of inland sailing and canoeing clubs are issued with warning leaflets.