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79
In 7,761 instances disinfectants were gratuitously supplied, either
at the houses or upon application at the Disinfectant Stores
Town Hall Road. Steam disinfection has been carried out in
351 instances, the articles disinfected weighing 29 tons 17 cwt.
1 qr. 27 lbs. The cost of steam disinfection, carried out by
contract, during the year was £513 11s. d.
Previously to the year under report it was the rule to
disinfect by steam only in cases where bedding was soiled by
discharges or where requested by the Medical attendant. It is
now the practice to disinfect after all cases of enteric fever, after
fatal cases of all notifiable diseases and phthisis, the latter subject
to permission, and in all other cases where patients are treated at
their homes.
From time to time the subject of carrying out steam
disinfection without the intervention of a contractor has been
considered, and on the 26th July the Health Committee submitted
the following report to the Vestry :—
"Your Committee have had under consideration the question
of the provision of a disinfection chamber in the Parish for
the purpose of disinfecting bedding and other articles atter cases
of infectious disease.
"They have carefully enquired into the matter and have come
to the conclusion that the time has arrived when the Vestry
should carry out the work of disinfection by men directly employed
by the Vestry, and they recommend that the necessary steps be
taken for the erection of a disinfection chamber for the purpose.
"Your Committee find that the following sites are available
and most suitable for the erection of a disinfecting chamber, viz:—
(1). Land adjoining site for Mortuary, Sheepcote
Lane.
(2), Land at rear of Town Hall Buildings.
and they recommend that the building be erected on one of such