Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Question 699: To ask the Minister for Health the steps being taken to deal with the situation that has arisen in a location (details supplied) in County Laois; if he will ensure there is direct communication with all the parents involved as urgently as possible such that any medical treatment required is provided without delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15635/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Following notification of a case of TB in a primary school in Co Laois, all children from one class have been screened for TB by Public Health Physicians as per National Guidance. The screening identified some children who needed further investigation. This is being undertaken by a Consultant Paediatrician. Once the appropriate tests are completed, a decision will be taken on the appropriate treatment, if any, needed. Public Health Physicians have met with all the parents involved and have also provided information leaflets. Communication with parents is ongoing.

It should be noted that the process of screening for TB takes a number of months to complete. The school screening has not identified any further cases of active TB. No delay is anticipated. Investigation and control of TB in the Midlands is carried out in accordance with national TB guidelines - "Guidelines on the Prevention and Control of Tuberculosis in Ireland 2010" available at: http://www.hpsc.ie/hpsc/A-Z/VaccinePreventable/TuberculosisTB/Publications/File,4349,en.pdf. Due to data protection legislation and respect for patient confidentiality, more detailed information will be provided only to the relevant parents.