London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Southgate 1933
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Southgate]
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LABORATORY FACILITIES.
Pathological and bacteriological examinations have, as hitherto,
been carried out by the Clinical Research Association.
The laboratory mentioned in last year's Report has now been
constructed and it is hoped to commence work during the first half
of 1934. Examination of diphtheria swabs and tubercular sputa
will then be carried out in the district, and it should be possible to
provide greater facilities for the local practitioners at a much lower
cost than hitherto. Until the laboratory is properly established it
is intended that Widal and fæces examinations and any other procedure
requiring elaborate technique should be undertaken as before
by the Clinical Research Association.
Bacteriological work for the Hospital will also take place at the
new laboratory.
Dr. Burns has agreed to act as my deputy for the laboratory
work at a small extra remuneration, and I also hope to be able to
utilise the services of the new Health Visitor if and when required.
During the year 1,347 specimens were sent for examination. The reports received were as follows:—
| Disease Suspected. | Positive. | Negative. | Total. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diphtheria (Swabs) | 215 | 950 | 1,165 |
| Typhoid Fever (Blood Tests) | 1 | 13 | 14 |
| Phthisis (Sputa) | 27 | 141 | 168 |
| 243 | 1,104 | 1,347 |
Bacteriological examination of 3 fæces, 1 vaginal swab, 1 cervix
swab, and 2 specimens of cerebro-spinal fluid were also carried out.
One test for virulence was made in connection with a protracted
case of diphtheria.
Arrangements for the examination of water, milk and foodstuffs
remain unaltered.
Legislation in Force.—No fresh legislation was made during
1933.
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