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149
Write to the Secretary of the local Head Teachers' Association
asking them to nominate a subject upon which they would like a special
address for all teachers and pupil teachers in the district. This generally
calls for close preparation, as our teachers are keen hygienists.
Remember the scholars in the large Private Schools. The Headmaster
will gladly arrange for two short addresses to upwards of 100
boys. Take command of the situation (and the boys), and deliver
impressive addresses on " The Care of the Teeth (and toothbrush)",
Pyorrhoea, Mouth Breathing and Adenoids, Deafness, etc. Use large
diagrams fixed on the blackboard.
In large cities, approach the proprietors of the Normal Training
Colleges.
I have addressed from 30 to 200 of the students on " Pure Food
Supplies," "Common Infectious Diseases." If there is a museum or
institute with hygienic exhibits, approach the Council for permission to
demonstrate to parties of twenty. Explain the sanitation of a building,
Refuse Destructors, give the cycle of the different Taeniae and if permitted
by the Head of the Tropical Diseases Section, arrange for a
microscopical demonstration of the parasites of Malaria, Dysentery,
Sleeping Sickness, etc.
Each year take one section of workers for a special address on the
diseases peculiar to their occupation. For example, I have lectured
on " The Health of the Clerk." His and her special ailments are –
Indigestion, Neurasthenia, Defective eyesight, Tuberculosis and sometimes
Writer's Cramp. Discuss the remedies and encourage exhaustive
discussion.
Approach Working Men and Women's Clubs, irrespective of their
political views, seeking their wishes. The men will ask for a lead and
subsequent debate on housing and house repairs, for a visit to the
Disinfecting Station and the Refuse Destructor; the women will request
an address on the raison d'etre and operation of the ante-natal
clinic and for a visit to an infant welfare centre.
What mills and factories are there in your district? What is or what
are the main industries? Look up part of the 75th Annual Report,
recently published, of the Registrar-General, and study the diseases
which each occupation group is subject to, as evidenced by the mortality
figures. See the proprietor or manager of the large factory first; thereafter
consult with representatives of the employees. A pointed fifteen
minutes' address will never fail to evoke a keen discussion, and questions.