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matter. This is another example of the value of close collaboration
between the three branches of the National Health Service.
The number of notifications of infectious diseases was
3,677 as compared with 1,124 the previous year, but this increase
was due to the biennial measles epidemic which accounted for
2,866 of the notifications. There was a reduction in the number
of notifications of nearly all the other infectious diseases as
compared with 1956. No cases of diphtheria were reported during
the year.
In the early summer, information was received from the
Ministry of Health of the occurrence of smallpox in a Borough
in North London, and as a precautionary measure every medical
practitioner in this Borough was warned of the danger. Two
cases of suspected smallpox were seen in this Borough, but were
found not to be suffering from this disease. It became necessary
to keep under surveillance a contact living in this Borough of
a German business man who visited this country for a few days
and on returning to the Continent became ill and was diagnosed
as suffering from smallpox. Fortunately, there were no developments.
Health education was intensified during the year, particular
attention being given to Clean Air, Food Hygiene and the
Prevention of Home Accidents. Many talks, demonstrations
and film shows were given to various organisations, posters were
displayed, pamphlets, leaflets and bookmarks were distributed,
and personal propaganda was carried out as a routine by the
Council's Inspectors during the course of their visits to homes,
factories, shops, etc.
In conclusion may I once again thank the members of the
Council and the other Chief Officers for their continued assistance
and co-operation, and record my sincere appreciation for the
competent and enthusiastic service rendered by the Staff of the
Public Health Department throughout the year.
I am, Mr. Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors,
Your obedient Servant,
H. D. CHALKE
Medical Officer of Health.