View report page

3
The formidable character of the outbreak may be judged
when it is remembered that the large number of deaths
ascribed to Bronchitis and Pneumonia is in large measure
accounted for by the prevalence of Whooping cough. In the
corresponding quarter of last year the deaths from Bronchitis
numbered 32, those from Pneumonia 46, this quarter they are
77 and 79 respectively.
It is the high mortality from Whooping cough and its
complications which account for the comparatively high death
rate for Willesden during the quarter and for the excessively
high mortality in Mid and South Kilburn. The very high
infantile mortality of South Kilburn is also accounted for on
the same ground.
Measles has prevailed in a lesser degree than Whooping
Cough, but all the conditions for a widespread extension of
this disease exist. By the prompt closure of classes in the
schools in which it has made its appearance, it has so far
been possible to limit its spread among scholars, but should
cases be overlooked in any of the schools, Measles may be
expected to assume the serious proportions unfortunately
attained by Whooping Cough.
I wish again in this connection to point out the serious
effect of withdrawing 101* of the Code from the Board of
Education's Regulations. The abolition of the Epidemic
Grant in 1903 penalises the local authority for the precautions
taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Teachers and Attendance Officers properly desire to maintain
a high record of attendance at the schools, and the temptation