§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans she has to meet WHO representatives to discuss the possible spread of yellow fever to Asia; and if she will make a statement. [2099]
§ Clare ShortDFID representatives will be meeting with WHO to discuss yellow fever issues in June. We are a significant contributor to the work of WHO to improve disease surveillance and to ensure effective control during outbreaks. Through our support we aim to improve national infrastructures and the capacity for detection. We are also funding the revision of the International Health Regulations, which cover yellow fever.
257W
§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment she has made of the risk of yellow fever spreading to Asia; and if she will make a statement. [2098]
§ Clare ShortProfessional advice is that the risk of importation of yellow fever through an infected individual is real and could result in a focused outbreak. However, such an occurrence is unlikely to lead to the disease becoming endemic. The risk is reduced by the application of international travel regulations regarding yellow fever and the increasing use of vaccine in countries where yellow fever is endemic.