§ Norman LambTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what measures have been taken to prevent further outbreaks of illness among British forces in Afghanistan. [64489]
§ Dr. MoonieAn infection control specialist and infection outbreak investigation team were deployed during the outbreak. Their recommendations have lead to a tightening up of existing sanitary and hygiene measures.
§ Norman LambTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the field hospital at Bagram has re-opened following its closure as a result of illness. [64490]
§ Dr. Moonie34 field hospital at Bagram never closed although for a time it did not accept trauma patients, a measure that was lifted on 19 May 2002.
§ Norman LambTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on hygiene standards of sanitary facilities used by British troops in Afghanistan. [64488]
§ Dr. MoonieAfghanistan is a challenging environment which does place some limits on the sanitary facilities that can be provided. For example, there is not an unlimited supply of water. However, basic sanitary facilities are in place. Troops have access to showering facilities and the medical advice is that the deep trench latrines that are in place do not compromise hygiene standards, if well maintained.
§ Norman LambTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the condition of the Royal Marines in Afghanistan who were struck down by illness during May. [64487]
§ Dr. MoonieAll British troops in Afghanistan who were suffering from winter vomiting disease during May have now recovered.