§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what actions the Government have undertaken to warn the public(a) about possible bio-terrorist attacks and (b) of the symptoms of smallpox. [44010]
§ Mr. HuttonThe Department has not issued guidance to the public about possible bio-terrorist attacks as it is not currently considered that a specific or credible threat exists to the UK.
Guidance was issued to all health authorities and Regional Directors of Public Health on the procedures to be followed in the event of a deliberate release of smallpox and other biological agents on 17 October 2001. At the same time, guidance for medical and laboratory staff was issued by the Public Health Laboratory Service on 17 October 2001. This is available on the PHLS website: http://www.phls.co.uk/advice/smallpox—guidelines.pdf. This is also available to the public. Guidance is also available to the public from NHS Direct.