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systematic examination of contacts, not only are many cases
detected at such an early stage of the disease that suitable
treatment may be successfully applied, but in some instances a
very chronic case is discovered, and means taken to prevent
any further infection. An individual may even be unaware of
anything radically wrong and yet constitute the fons et origo of
the so-called original case in the house.
As a corrollary to the examination of contacts at their
homes, the Tuberculosis Officer will advise patients and all in
the house as to the correct mode of living. He will point out
the benefit of fresh air and cleanliness, and why these desiderata
are so necessary to everybody who desires to be healthy and
happy. He will insist upon the proper disposal of sputum or
other infectious discharges, and generally will be the means
of improving the morale and self-respect of those with whom
he comes into contact.
THE DISPENSARY AS A CENTRE FOR THE TREATMENT
OF THE DISEASE.
So much might be written upon the subject of the treatment
of Tubercular diseases that it is impossible even to attempt to
cover the ground adequately in a short book like this. Attention
can however be drawn to certain broad lines along which we
proceed to treat the different classes of tuberculous cases attending
the Deptford Dispensary. These methods we believe
to be the best and most up-to-date known to medical science.
As mentioned above, certain cases are referred to Sanatoria,
others to institutions for the treatment of advanced cases, and
others to open air schools. There are also a number who are
patients of private medical practitioners, and those recommended
for domiciliary treatment, who will probably never attend at the
Dispensary at all. Apart from all these the large majority of
tuberculous patients throughout the country will eventually