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9
Phthisis.
There is, unfortunately, no considerable lessening of the
phthisis mortality, which, although not great, is an evidence
that special efforts are still required to combat this disease.
Those special efforts will be the outcome of the compulsory
notification of all forms of tuberculosis which should result in
great administrative advantages. By the notification of phthisis
the experince so gained will be very valuable and greatly
facilitate the work of the Health Department in connection
with the organised scheme of supervision and treatment which
is now before the Health Committee.
The efforts of the Council have hitherto been directed with
a view to bringing more closely the living places and the
surroundings of the people to the requirements of sanitation.
The work, needless to say, cannot be regarded as finished.
There is still wanted the developed scheme mentioned in the
text of this report, and more open spaces and playgrounds in
the poorer quarters of the borough and other similar necessities
for health. With phthisis as with other diseases prevention is
better than cure, and attention must not be diverted from the
preventive aspects by prospects which are held out of cure
which are often illusory.
In conclusion, it is pleasant to report that the Staff of the
Public Health Department have carried out their duties during
the year with remarkable conscientiousness and have been of
the greatest assistance to me. I beg to add my sincere thanks
to your Committee for their kindly and courteous consideration
to the Staff and myself. To Mr. Purkis, of the Town Clerk's
Department, who has furnished me with valuable information,
I also tender my best thanks.
I have the honour to remain, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
W. H. Whitehouse.