§ Mr. SarwarTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps the Government have taken to raise public awareness of meningitis, with particular reference to the university student population in Scotland. [20748]
§ Mr. GalbraithIt is vital that public awareness of meningococcal meningitis is maintained. Although relatively uncommon in Scotland, the infection can have potentially serious consequences. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can be lifesaving. Young children are the group most likely to be affected, but recently there has been an increase in the number of cases in young adults. The Health Education Board for Scotland publication "Birth to Five", which is issued to all new mothers in Scotland, includes information and advice about meningitis. Relevant information, produced by the Meningitis Research Foundation and the National Meningitis Trust, is issued routinely to students. The Scottish Office Department of Health is keeping the situation under review, in consultation with Health Board Consultants in Public Health Medicine.