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consequently exposed to infection. This number refers to those
families which only possessed one bed. In addition to these
there were 1)1 persons who occupied the same bedroom as a phthisical
patient, and in some instances the same bed. Two bedrooms were
dark, or had insufficient light. The ventilation was insufficient
in 31 other bedrooms, and 11 bedrooms were stuffy. The defective
ventilation and absence of ventilation greatly facilitates the spread
of the disease. It is difficult sometimes to suggest means by which
it may be overcome—occasionally owners have been induced to
place gratings in the walls. Unfortunately, even when they have
been provided, the occupants have been known to stuff the aperture
with rags, and thus render these gratings useless. All the bedrooms
occupied by consumptives had fireplaces save one. It is extremely
important that every room used for human habitation should have
a fireplace or means of communication with the outer air in addition
to the window frame.
4 bedrooms had dirty walls and ceilings; 4 were verminous.
In 23 instances the patients were said to be of careless habits.
The Kitchen.—In 100 instances or 50 per cent. of the whole
number of cases, the kitchen was being used as a living room
and a sleeping room. This is one index of poverty, and shows
the difficulties of accommodation and the facilities for infection
which accrue in these poor households. Sometimes the patient
himself occupies the kitchen by day and night. 4 of the kitchens
were dirty and one was also verminous.
The presence of dirt and vermin may be taken to connote
carelessness, and carelessness in the family of a consumptive
means increased risk of infection for the rest of the family.
Other Measures.—Enquiry is made in every infected household
for missed or suspected cases of tuberculosis. Cases so found
are urged to seek medical advice and treatment, and are informed
where and how to obtain them. The free bacteriological examination
of sputum is offered to all medical men who practise in the
Borough. In 1925 the number of specimens examined was 175,
of which 26 gave positive results,