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69
Anti-toxin.—The immense value of Anti-toxin used either
as a curative or prophylatic agent in Diphtheria has been
established beyond all doubt. Its utility is greatly increased
when administered in the earliest stage of the disease.
In order that all cases may have the advantage of its
early use a gratuitous supply may be obtained at any hour at
the Town Hall.
East London Industrial Schools.—In December three cases
of Diphtheria occurred in the above School, which contains 150
boys. Immediate action was taken to prevent the extension of
the disease. On visiting the Institution I found Mr. Cartwright,
the Superintendent, desirous of a thorough investigation, and
willing to give me every possible assistance. A meeting was
arranged with Dr. Farmer, the Medical Adviser to the School,
who, with myself, minutely examined 150 boys. Fourteen swabs
were taken and submitted to bacteriological examination. Two
were found to contain diphtheria, three strepto-cocci and nine
pseudo-diphtheria. The diphtheria cases were removed to
Hospital, and special isolation obtained at the School for the
pseudo-diphtheria cases. The occurrence of fresh cases ceased
from this time.
The question of providing facilities for the bacteriological
examination of suspected diptheria cases is an important one.
Without such examination some mild cases may escape detection
and become a source of infection to many. This subject will, I
hope, receive your consideration during the ensuing year.
In my opinion pseudo-diphtheria is highly infectious and
capable of producing conditions closely allied to diphtheria.
ENTERIC OR TYPHOID FEVER.—Sixty-one notifications
were received. After deducting cases removed to St. John's