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33
Encephalitis Lethargica.—The Public Health (Acute Encephalitis
Lethargica and Acute Polio Encephalitis) Regulations, 1918,
came into operation on 1st January, 1919. During the year 1920
10 cases were notified, of which number 5 were fatal. Eight of
the patients were removed to hospital.
The Ministry of Health and the London County Council were
in the majority of cases supplied with full histories of the course
of each patient's illness, but in several instances the medical
practitioners in attendance on cases certified by them definitely
refused to furnish the details desired upon the grounds that there
was no statutory obligation cast upon them to do so and no fees
were paid to them for writing the reports. In view of the great
importance of collecting as much information as possible relating
to this obscure disease, the withholding of details as to symptoms,
etc., is to be regretted; it ought to be obtained, and to be
paid for.
Influenzal Pneumonia and Pneumonia.—There were 42 cases
of influenzal pneumonia and 55 of primary pneumonia notified.
As provided in the Regulations, where the nursing was found to
be inadequate a nurse was sent from the King's Home for Nurses
in accordance with an arrangement made with the Superintendent
at a fee of 1s. 3d. per visit. During the year 969 visits were so
made at a cost to the Council of £61 1s. 3d. Influenza, unless
complicated by pneumonia, is not notifiable.
Malaria.—The total number of cases of malaria certified was
21, all of which, it was ascertained upon enquiry, had been
contracted out of England.
Dysentery.—There were 7 cases of dysentery certified, all
being contracted abroad ; 3 deaths were registered.
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