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titioners for any complicated case arising in connection with pregnancy
or childbirth, occurring in the home. During 1947 they were called in
on two occasions.
Care of Premature Infants — Ministry of Health Circular 20/44.
The spccial equipment recommended by the Ministry of Health
in connection with the care of premature infants is available on
application to the Wimbledon District Nursing and Midwifery Association,
28 Kings Road, Wimbledon.
Dr. G. H. Nevvns. who was appointed by the Wimbledon Borough
Council as Consulting Paediatrician in 1944, is available for consultation
with medical practitioners in respect of any infant under the
age of one year. During 1947 he was called in on six occasions.
The number of premature births notified during 1947 in respect
of Wimbledon residents was 53.
Thirteen premature infants were born in the Borough. Seven of
these births occurred at home, and the remaining six in nursing
homes. Two of those born at home were removed to hospital. All
13 babies survived at the end of one month.
Care of Illegitimate Children.—Ministry of Health Circular 2866 (1948).
The Wimbledon and Merton Moral Welfare Association have
a welfare worker who deals with the problems arising in connection
with unmarried mothers and the care of illegitimate children in this
area.
In March. 1947, this Association established a Hostel for Unmarried
Mothers and their infants at the Haygarth Witts Memorial
Home, The Ridgway, Wimbledon, for mothers from Wimbledon and
surrounding districts.
Previously the Wimbledon Maternity and Child Welfare Committee
have made grants towards the maintenance of such girls with
their infants in various Mother and Baby Homes outside the Borough.
Upon the establishment of the Home in the Ridgway they agreed, in
principle, to accept responsibility for the maintenance of Wimbledon
girls admitted there — less of course any contributions made by the
putative father or from any other source. The cost of maintenance
has been assessed at £3 per week.
During the year the Committee accepted financial responsibility
in nine cases at a total cost of £178 18s. 6d.
Ophthalmia Neonatorum.
The following table shows that four cases of ophthalmia neonatorum
were notified.
In no case did any impairment of vision occur.