HC Deb 22 October 1991 vol 196 c588W
Mr. Hinchliffe

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what links have been established between the virus causing bovine spongiform encephalomyelitis and the virus causing Creutzfeldt Jakob disease; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Dorrell

Although the agents responsible for Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and bovine spongiform encephalopathy both belong to the unique group of agents that can cause transmissible and genetic neurodegenerative diseases, there is no evidence to suggest a link between CJD and BSE.

Mr. Hinchliffe

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what information he has available concerning the vectors for the virus causing Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Mr. Dorrell

The infectious agent causing CreutzfeldtJakob disease has not been confirmed as a virus and its precise nature remains uncertain. The identified routes of transmission involve the use of human dura, corneal grafts or human growth hormone, and exposure to contaminated instruments during neurosurgical procedures. In the great majority of patients undergoing these procedures the risk of transmission is minimal. A number of research projects are in progress to investigate other reasons for the incidence of CJD.

The Department has taken action to ensure that any potentially infected human tissue referred to is no longer used. The need for additional guidance for neurosurgeons and neuropathologists is being considered by the Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens.

Mr. Hinchliffe

To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many persons have died within the United Kingdom as a result of Creutzfeld Jakob disease; and what is the average age at death;

(2) how many cases of Creutzfeld Jakob disease have been recorded in the United Kingdom annually since 1979.

Mr. Dorrell

I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for South Shields (Dr. Clark) on 23 May at column598 and the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne, Central (Mr. Cousins) on 15 July at column 68.

Of the 10 people who died in 1990 where Creutzfeld-Jakob disease has been confirmed, the average at death was 65.3 years.