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The only possible source of infection that could be traced in
these cases was that the family had partaken of mussels on one
occasion some two or three weeks previously ; but the information
was vague as to how many members of the family had eaten the
mussels, and where they had been obtained. No further cases
occurred in this family, which numbered nine persons, including
the aunt, C. V—, the first case notified.
Forty-two samples of blood were submitted for bacteriological
examination for the Widal reaction for Typhoid, and in
eight (i.e., 19.0 per cent.) a positive result was obtained.
The value of the Widal reaction as a test in suspected cases
of Typhoid Fever is considerable. Owing to the insidious onset
of this disease, cases are sometimes mistaken for less infectious
and dangerous diseases. Advantage, I am glad to report, is
being generally taken of the facilities which the Council have provided
for the use of the medical men residing in the Borough,
and with satisfactory results, as the records of this disease in
Battersea testify.
Puerperal Fever.
During 1908, in the Borough of Battersea, 7 cases of Puerperal
Fever were notified and 5 deaths were registered, giving a
case mortality of 71.4 per cent. The case rate was .03, or .02
below the mean case rate for the preceding ten years. The death
rate was .02 per 1,000, or .01 below the decennial average. The
death-rate for London was .03. Three deaths occurred in East
Battersea, and one each in North- and South-West Battersea.
In 1907, 13 cases of Puerperal Fever were notified, and 7
deaths were registered, giving a case mortality of 53.8 per cent.
and a death rate of 0.03 per 1,000.
Puerperal Fever is a preventable disease, and is caused by
want of care by those in attendance on the lying-in woman.
During 1908, 4,629 births were registered in Battersea, and in
only 7 cases was Puerperal Fever notified—a highly satisfactory
record. In each case enquiries were made, and the midwives in