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62
REPORTS
of
THE MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH,
to
THE BOARD OF WORKS FOR THE LEWISHAM DISTRICT,
FROM JANUARY, 1857, TO MARCH, 1858,
(inclusive).

Gentlemen,
The returns of mortality for the month ending the 24th day of January last, exhibit a
favourable average as compared with the corresponding month of last year, the deaths
registered being 28, whereas in January, 1856, they were 30 in number.
The changeable weather has been particularly unfavourable to the health of the aged.
The deaths of 10 old persons are registered, of whom 4 were over 60 years of age, 3 over
70, and 1 over 80 years of age.
Chest diseases, and diseases of the zymotic class, have been more prevalent during the
last two weeks, but no death has occurred from the latter class of disease; the former
has been fatal to 10 persons.
The ventilation of the infirmary at the North Surrey Industrial Schools is in progress,
and great benefit will be derived from this important measure. Charcoal disinfecting
trays are also in course of construction, to neutralize noxious effluvia. I have, however,
still to complain of the undrained land at the back of the School, which is now a source
of dampness and cold, and in spring and early summer, when the sun's rays have gained
more power, must be a source of ill health from the malaria produced by decomposing
vegetation.
I have to call your attention to the following list of nuisances, many of them injurious
to the health, which require your order for their removal; and also to the fact, that
many easily removable nuisances, reported from time to time during the past year, are
still unaltered.
The smoke evolved from ballast burning, upon the site of the new chapel, at Forest
Hill, in close contiguity to dwelling houses, has been a source of great annoyance, and,
in one instance, has certainly hastened the death of an aged gentleman, who was suffering
from bronchitis.
Offensive privies at back of Fallwell's, draper and chemist, Lower Sydenham.
Pigs kept by two bakers, Cowley and another, and Ashly's, since removed.
Offensive sewage in ditch running from Shaw's Cottages, &c., Perry Rise.
Dirty and dangerous road at back of Forester Inn. There are 19 houses in this
locality.