Department probes Thalidomide-related illness

THE Department of Health has confirmed it is investigating the country’s first case of Thalidomide-related illness in almost 30 years.

The Irish Thalidomide Association says (ITA) it expects up to 20 more victims to come forward in the wake of more accurate blood tests. Thalidomide was prescribed to pregnant women suffering morning sickness in the 50s and 60s.

A health spokesperson said it has formally begun examining the circumstances of a middle-aged woman who made contact with the department believing she was one of those affected by the Thalidomide tragedy.