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Most of the cases of scarlet fever occurred in the East Ward.
This ward not only has the largest ward population, but also
contains a younger population, and therefore a population which is
more susceptible to infectious disease. The rapid development of,
and the influx of population into this ward have been important
factors in the spread of this disease.
The majority of the cases were of a very mild type, so much
so, in fact, that many cases were missed owing to the transient
nature of the rash and the mildness of the attack. These missed
cases accounted for quite a number of secondary cases occurring in
the same household.
Diphtheria.
Eighty cases of diphtheria were notified during the year.
Eighty cases were removed to hospital.
Two deaths were registered from this disease.
Arrangements have been made by the Council for the
examination, free of charge, of swabs taken from suspected cases of
diphtheria, and during the year 528 such examinations have been
made. Anti-toxin is also issued free of charge to practitioners who
may require it.
Diphtheria Immunisation.
A diphtheria immunisation clinic is held at the Town Hall
every fortnight. During the year 126 children have been immunised.
Diphtheria prophylactic is also given to the medical
practitioners in the district free of charge, and during the year 22
persons were immunised by their own doctors.
Typhoid Fever.
Three cases of typhoid fever were notified during the year. All
cases were due to infection paratyphosus B. infection. In no case
could the source of the infection be found. There were no deaths
from this disease during the year.
Diarrhoea and Enteritis under Two Years of Age.
Two deaths were registered during the year; both were
males.
Encephalitis Lethargica.
No case was notified during the year.