§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he has taken to raise public awareness of toxic shock syndrome; and if he will make a statement. [89966]
§ Mr. HuttonThe Department works closely with the Toxic Shock Syndrome Information Service (TSSIS) to raise awareness of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) among young people. The TSSIS provide a wide range of factual materials to increase awareness of TSS among both the public and the health profession. Earlier this year a joint mailing initiative was undertaken between the Department and the TSSIS to inform all media doctors and agony aunts of TSS. A letter about the work of the TSSIS and an information pack was sent out free of charge to enable them to advise their readers on the condition. Research by TSSIS suggests that awareness of TSS among young people is high.
In addition, the Absorbent Hygiene Products Manufacturers Association's Voluntary Code of Practice ensures that clear warnings about TSS are printed on the outside of every pack of tampons, and a leaflet inside the pack gives advice about the safe use of tampons and what to do if suspected TSS symptoms are experienced.