Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Deptford]
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10
The cots at the Albany Institute were in constant use throughout
the year. The children were admitted suffering from malnutrition,
diarrhoea, &c. Of the 33 children admitted 7 died. The average
period of residence in the home was 3 weeks.
Epidemic diarrhoea was made compulsorily notifiable during the
summer months, and proved useful in reminding the public of the
seriousness of the complaint.
The necessity of cleanliness in the preparation of baby's food, and
the importance of breast feeding in connection with the prevention of
diarrhoea were constantly brought before the mothers by the Health
Visitors. In connection with the feeding of the babies the following
details are of interest.
"Mixed feeding" means both breast and hand-fed.
Wards. | Breast Feeding. | Mixed Feeding. | Hand Feeding. | Totals. |
---|---|---|---|---|
East | 209 | 55 | 51 | 315 |
North | 478 | 33 | .19 | 530 |
North-West | 519 | 18 | 54 | 591 |
South | 120 | 6 | 21 | 147 |
South-East | 151 | 9 | 13 | 173 |
South-West | 143 | 15 | 14 | 172 |
1620 | 136 | 172 | 1928 |
Antenatal Work.
Some 30 expectant mothers attended the Centres and received any
necessary advice, but at present it is difficult to persuade them to attend,
but with the New Year it is hoped to develop this part of the work.