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28
ANALYSIS OF THE SERIES OF 30 SAMPLES.
Dirt—
Much in 2 Samples = 6.6 per cent.
Appreciable in 4 Samples = 13.4 „ ,,
Dirty—20 per cent.
Small amount in 14 Samples = 46.6 „ „ Fairlyy clean—46.6 percent.
Negligible in 10 Samples = 33-3 „ „ Clean—33.3 per cent.
Pathogenicity—
In 3 Samples 10 per cent.
Of which 2 yielded tubercle 6.6 „ „
1 „ abscess 3.3 „ „
No serious pathogenic effect, beyond local tumour which disappeared (in 2 cases)
in 90 per cent.
These results indicate the prevalence of highly unsatisfactory conditions in the
milk trade.
Only 33.3 of the samples were clean, while the tubercle bacillus was found in
6'6 per cent.
I have on occasions, when the results of an investigation have been of a more
satisfactory character, felt that the efforts made to secure a pure and wholesome milk
supply for the people of London, have not been altogether unsuccessful, but these
feelings have been quickly banished by the unsatisfactory results of subsequent
enquiries which have made it apparent that until the hands of farmers, dairymen, and
others engaged in the distribution of this indispensable commodity are forced by
Statute, no real or lasting improvement can be looked for.
This investigation, however, revealed a marked improvement in the type of churn
used for conveyance. The old objectionable pattern, which under the mistaken idea
of providing "ventilation" afforded means of access to all kinds of dirt in transit is
gradually being replaced by dust proof, sealed and locked churns, which, if the milk be
clean and properly cooled at the farm and properly dealt with in transit, will do much
to ensure its delivery in a proper condition.
Milk from which eighteen of the samples referred to above were taken was
contained in properly constructed receptacles locked and unventilated.
In accordance with the agreement made under the London County Council
(General Powers) Act, 1907, Section 35, details of the two tuberculous samples Nos. 2
and 11, were sent to the London County Council, who inform me that with regard to
No. 2, a Veterinary inspection was made of the cows on the farm from
which the sample was derived, and one cow found to have an unhealthy udder
and another suffering from generalised tuberculosis ;
No. 11, the London County Council were unable to take action in regard
to the farm from which this sample was delivered, as the supply of milk had
been discontinued.
As this latter, in all probability, means that although the milk is not being sent to
London it is being sent elsewhere, I have communicated the facts to the Medical Officer
of Health for the district in which the farm is situated.