§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance his Department has issued in respect of organophosphate-based treatments for head lice; and if he will make a statement. [39332]
§ Ms JowellGuidance on the safe use of organophosphate containing treatments for head lice is made available for health professionals and patients by the manufacturer through the product information, which is authorised by the licensing authority.
§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the incidence of head lice amongst children in Staffordshire. [39331]
§ Ms JowellHead lice infections are not notifiable and are often managed within the privacy of people's own homes, making accurate counting difficult. A study1 in the south of England suggests that in a year on average 10 per cent. of children catch lice. The health authorities in Staffordshire believe incidence in Staffordshire to be similar to that experienced in other parts of the country. The Public Health Departments and School Health Services in both North and South Staffordshire are active in providing support and advice to health care professionals, schools and parents about managing head lice.
Source:
1Public Health Laboratory—Communicable Disease Report: Head Lice 10 October 1997.