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27
The main drainage system was laid in 1863, and the
engineer (the late Sir Joseph Bazalgette) made a statement at
the time of its completion that it would last for 25 years, and at
the end of that time (with the rapidly increasing population) it
would be necessary to enquire closely whether it could not be
capable of improvement.
ANTITOXIC SERUM TREATMENT FOR
DIPHTHERIA.
It is gratifying to know that the mortality from Diphtheria is
much lower since the use of the "Antitoxic Serum." The
mortality from that disease has considerably diminished since its
introduction and subsequent application.
A very exhaustive report on the subject has recently been
published by the Medical Superintendents of the Metropolitan
Asylums Board's Hospitals, the summary of which I append:-
"The improved results in the Diphtheria cases treated during
the year 1895, which are indicated by the foregoing statistics and
clinical observations, are-
(i.) A great reduction in the mortality of cases brought
under treatment on the first and second day of
illness.
(ii.) The lowering of the combined general mortality to a
point below that of any former year.
(iii.) The still more remarkable reduction in the mortality
of the laryngeal cases.
(iv.) The uniform improvement in the results of
tracheotomy at each separate Hospital.
(v.) The beneficial effect produced on the clinical course
of the disease.