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15
A reference to the foregoing table shows that diseases
of the Tubercular class (which includes Scrofula and Consumption)
assumed the highest position in the causation of
mortality of the past year, forming 15 per cent, of all
deaths. Next in rank and of equal fatality were diseases
of the Organs of Respiration and diseases of the Zymotic
class (Epidemic, Contagious), forming nearly 14 per cent.,
the latter class being much below the average. Consumption
was, as usual, the most fatal single disease,
causing upwards of 8 per cent, of all deaths. The unusually
large amount of upwards of 9 per cent, of the
whole mortality is recorded as having resulted from old
age. The other classes do not present any variation from
the average requiring comment.
Age at Death.—Upwards of 21 per cent, of all deaths
took place under I year, 34 per cent, under 5 years, and
40 per cent, under 20 years of age. An unusually large
number of deaths took place at the other extreme of life,
92 having occurred above 60 years, and 37 above 75 years
of age. The ages of these latter were as follows;—three
exceeded 76, eight 77, four 78, seven 79, one 80, one 81,
three 82, four 84, two 86, one 87, one 89, one 91, and one
exceeded 95 years. Those who attained the age of 80 and
upwards were, with two exceptions, females.
Social position.—75 per cent, of all deaths, and 84 per
cent, of deaths from Epidemic diseases, occurred amongst
the labouring classes.
Inquests, &c.—16 inquests were held during the year.
There were 13 deaths from violence, 12 of which were
accidental and 1 suicidal. The cause of death was not
certified by medical testimony in 9 instances. The necessity
which exists for an investigation in all cases of uncertified
death cannot, as has been often reiterated in these
reports, be too strongly insisted on. (See observations in
report for 1865).
Prevalence and Fatality of Epidemic Diseases.—The
following table exhibits the deaths which have resulted
from the principal Epidemic diseases during the past and