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During the winter months 86 patients with chronic bronchitis
took part in the Influenza Vaccine Trials organised by the
Medical Research Council. These trials were run on the same
lines as those carried out in the previous year when a similar
number of Camberwell patients was included. Although the
national figures have not been particularly conclusive when
analysed in the most critical way, there was hardly a patient
who did not maintain that at least subjectively he felt considerably
better for the vaccine. Fortunately, there was not a
great deal of very bad weather or periods of smog during the
year under review, and although the influenza outbreak produced
severe and debilitating symptoms, the infection never reached
the epidemic proportions of the previous year.
The work of the Health Visitors continues to be of the utmost
importance and in all, 3,821 successful visits were made.
Although the tuberculosis health visiting entails calling on fewer
patients, the amount of work involved in assisting and advising
the tuberculous households has increased, and so too has the
time that the Lady Almoner is able to devote to her interviews.
However, in the cases of both the Health Visitors and the Lady
Almoner, the scope of their work has widened and now includes
supervision of families where there are Mantoux positive children
and many elderly chronic bronchitics. The work of these two
social departments is more than ever necessary nowadays
and their complementary nature must never be overlooked.
We wish to extend to the Divisional Medical Officer of the
London County Council and her staff, Dr. Chalke and his staff
of the Borough Health Offices, the District Nursing Organisations
and the London County Council Ambulance Service, our
appreciation for their help and co-operation during the year.
KENNETH MARSH,
Consultant Physician.
Chest Department,
St. Giles' Hospital, S.E.5.