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The class mates were patch tested, these numbered 36. One was
positive and was referred to the Ealing Chest Clinic, one was not
patch tested as she already had had B.C.G. (her mother was the
patient). Five of the children had left the school, but in each case
the respective Area Medical Officer was notified.
In two senior schools, special surveys were carried out on children
who had been in contact with a classmate who had developed
pulmonary tuberculosis. Sixty-four children and fifteen staff were
involved. Arrangements were made for the staff to be x-rayed, also
for one girl who had left school (overage). This was done with
satisfactory results. Of the fifty-four children who were mantoux
tested, fourteen were positive reactors and attended the Ealing
Chest Clinic for x-ray. All x-rays were within nromal limits. Four
absentees of the mantoux testing were sent to the Ealing Chest
Clinic for investigation. All had satisfactory results. Three girls
had recently attended hospital. The parents of two boys refused
treatment, these were followed up by home visits.
The fourth special survey was carried out in a senior school
as a student teacher was found to be suffering from pulmonary
tuberculosis. It was found that there were one hundred and thirtythree
class and nine staff contacts. The staff attended Central Middlesex
Hospital for x-ray and all with satisfactory results. Of the
133 class contacts, 57 had previously been included in the B.C.G.
scheme. Of the remaining 76, 55 had a mantoux test, 52 of these
were negative, but only one of the 3 positive was sent for x-ray
(this was negative). 18 children were sent for mass x-rays and these
were all negative. One parent preferred to take her daughter to see
her own doctor, one child's parents were abroad and the guardian
did not feel free to give consent to a skin test and one already attended
the Ealing Chest Clinic.
HEALTH EDUCATION
In several schools regular health talks and demonstrations were
given by the School Health Staff.