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93
In 3 of the samples of Urine, Casts, Streptococci and Staphylococci
were discovered; in the sample of Liver, Hydatids were
found; whilst in 3 of the samples of Ice Cream, Bacilli Coli
Communis were isolated. In the remaining 8 samples, the results
of the examinations were negative.
The need for bacteriological laboratories in large centres of
population is now acknowledged, and the value of the one in
Lambeth Borough (for the sole use of the Borough) cannot be
over-estimated. By means of bacteriological examinations made
therein, doubtful diagnoses have been settled, and the necessary
preventive measures taken, as required, where the disease has
proved to be of an infectious nature. Where the result of the
examinations has shown the suspected disease not to be of an
infectious nature, expense has been saved in connection with
hospital treatment and disinfection.
Bacteriological examination is only an aid to diagnosis, but
gives great assistance to a Medical Officer in connection with the
carrying out of his duties, and to a Medical Practitioner in making
certain the diagnosis in doubtful infectious cases.
One reason for the success of the Lambeth Bacteriological
Laboratory is the great use that is being made of it by the Lambeth
Medical Practitioners, by whom its institution by the late
Vestry in 1899 has been much appreciated, and to whom it has
proved of the greatest value.
Joseph Priestley,
Medical Officer of Health.
January, 1903.