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6
625 deaths in Public Institutions outside the borough of persons
belonging to Deptford are included in estimating the vital statistics
in this Report. In 1913 the number dying in these institutions was
46 more than in 1912. These returns are interesting, as something
may be learned of the social conditions of a locality when so large a
proportion in times of sickness seek refuge in public institutions, more
especially in the workhouses. Generally this implies poverty and want,
but it may also, and no doubt does, imply that the institutions have a
good reputation, and attract sufferers to them.
Infantile Mortality.
The infantile mortality for the year was 113 per 1,000, and the
average for the previous ten years was 124 per 1,000. In considering
this year's mortality we must take into consideration the very high
birth-rate. It is generally understood that when the birth-rate is high
the infantile mortality must be also high.
Every extended inquiry into the intricate subject of infant mortality
brings to light the fact that parents living apparently under the same
social and sanitary conditions, have varying success in rearing their
children, and that the personal factor deserves a careful study. Poverty
and riches, sanitary or insanitary conditions, occupation or the want of
it, high birth-rate or low, all play their part in bringing these variations
about.
Tuberculosis.
As was anticipated a great increase in the work of your Medical
Officer was caused by the Tuberculosis Regulations which came into
force on the 1st February, 1913. This was more particularly so during
the period from June to October, when we were without a Dispensary
Medical Officer, but I have endeavoured to keep a vigilant eye upon all
cases of tuberculosis 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.
We have now completed a full year's work at the Dispensary.
There have been 4,312 attendances at the Dispensary and 841 new
cases have been treated. In addition to this the number of visits to
the houses of patients and the examinations of suspects and contacts
was 3,348. In the text I have included tables entailing much personal
work, which I consider necessary, not only for the benefit of the
Council, but to meet the requirements of the three other bodies contributing
to the upkeep of the Dispensary. I am sure the Council will