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50
During the year 1909, 283 cases were reported to the Medical
Officer of Health, as compared with 280 in 1908. The sources of
information were as follows: —
Cases notified by medical practitioners 19
„ parents or guardians 67
,, school teachers 155
„ employers and others 36
Death Returns 6
283
The cases are visited by lady inspectors, who instruct the mothers
of the patients as to the measures that should be adopted for the isolation
of the patient at home, there being no hospital accommodation for
cases of Measles in London, other than that afforded by the Poor Law
Infirmaries. The Inspectors in their visits lay stress on the fact that
Measles is a serious disease, often ending fatally, that requires careful
nursing and medical attendance. In every case the parents are urged
to call in a doctor. Unfortunately the idea is prevalent that Measles is
a disease of slight importance that calls for no special precautions, but
the health visiting work of lady inspectors is having a good effect in
dispelling this mistaken idea of Measles. More precautions are being taken
against the spread of infection, and greater care is bestowed upon the
patients. Disinfection is carried out after every case coming to the
knowledge of the Medical Officer of Health.
In 51 cases it was found, on enquiry, that no doctor was in
attendance.
The 283 cases occurred in 191 houses:—
In 128 houses there was 1 case in each house.
In 42 ,, ,, were 2 cases ,,
In 15 ,, ,, ,, 3 ,, ,,
In 5 ,, ,, ,, 4 ,, ,,
In 1 house „ „ 6 „