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WINTER EPIDEMICS
In the early part of the year the usual publicity campaign
was carried out for the prevention of the spread of influenza,
coughs, colds, etc. Films were shown at local cinemas, posters
were displayed and leaflets distributed giving advice on general
personal hygiene and such slogans as "Coughs and sneezes
spread diseases" and "Trap the germs in your handkerchief"
have become very familiar.
Towards the end of the year, however, some concern was
occasioned by the spread to this country of influenza, which
originated in the Far East, and a close watch was kept on its
incidence. Influenza is not a notifiable infectious disease and
therefore certain general medical practitioners in the Borough
with large practices were asked to act as "spotters" and to
inform the Medical Officer of Health in the event of any unusual
increase in the seasonal incidence of influenza occurring among
their patients. In addition, close liaison was kept with the
school medical service, and the hospitals in the Borough were
warned.
The epidemic did not, fortunately, become a serious menace
to the health of the public in this area. Cases were most
numerous among school-children and inmates of institutions,
military establishments and colleges. Absenteeism among schoolchildren
was highest during October, reaching over 50 per cent,
in one or two schools. However, the disease was quite mild.
Complications were exceptional and the mortality negligible.
The epidemic subsided fairly rapidly, but precautionary measures
were continued and towards the end of the year, limited supplies
of vaccine became available for certain classes of persons such as
general practitioners, nurses, midwives, home helps, ambulance
staffs and others who may be called upon to visit the sick at home.