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7
that some means of controlling the disease may be formulated
and that a vigilant eye may be kept upon all cases occurring in
the Borough for the benefit of those affected and as a means
of preventing infection to others.
Municipal Dispensary for the Prevention
of Tuberculosis.
The most important work of the year has been the opening
of the Municipal Dispensary. In obtaining a freehold building
and site, thoroughly equipping and controlling it, the Council
was ahead of any of the other London Boroughs. The dispensary
had not been open long enough at the end of the year
to give detailed figures of the work, but in 13 consecutive weeks
225 new patients presented themselves, and 755 consultations
have been held, in addition to which a large number of contacts
have been examined at their homes.
Last year I said that we still wanted developed the scheme
laid down in my report; this year we have it, and it is already
justifying its existence.
Cleansing Station.
In July last a cleansing station for the cleansing of verminous
children was established. 773 baths were given, showing
an average of 41 children bathed per week during the time the
station has been open. We find the station a most useful
adjunct to the department, in that we are able to trace the
children to their homes and there insist upon the disinfection
of bedding and general cleansing.
Infant Consultations.
I am pleased to state that I have been able to commence
infant consultations with the help of my additional Health
Visitors and voluntary helpers. The consultations are held on
Mondays and Thursdays and medical advice is given if required.
The attendance each week is good and is increasing.