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(9)
TRACHEOTOMY.
This operation was performed during the year
9 times with 2 deaths, last year 10 times with 3
deaths.
POST DIPHTHERITIC PARALYSIS.
The relationship of the duration of membrane to
the incidence of paralysis following Diphtheria has
been quite as marked in this year's experience as
in last. Where the duration of membrane did not
exceed 0 days paralysis occurred in 19 per cent. of
the cases, last year in 14 per cent. Where the duration
exceeded six days the incidence this year was on
53.7 per cent. of the cases as compared with 44.2 per
cent. last. The inference is forced upon one that
early use of Antitoxin lessens the fatality rate, shortens
the duration of membrane, and by so doing minimises
the risk of succeeding paralysis. The facilities
afforded by the Council for securing at once a
gratuitous supply of Antitoxin for the use of any
residents in the district have therefore again been
justified in the substantial saving of life and lessened
duration of illness of those attacked by Diphtheria.