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also be borne in mind that Scarlet Fever and other infectious
diseases are liable to periodic fluctuations which are as yet
unexplained.
31. The means directed against the spread of infection are
disinfection and isolation.
Disinfection in Plumstead is performed as follows:—As soon
as possible after receipt of information that the premises are
ready for disinfection, the officer fumigates with Formaline the
rooms recently occupied by the patients.
All fabrics and wearing apparel are hung round the room,
the bed loosened, and the palliasses stood on end. Twentyfive
Formaline tablets are used for every 1,000 cubic ft. All
cracks and openings are stopped, and the room is closed for 6
hours, more or less.
The following day the fabrics, bedding and garments are
taken to the Steam Disinfector and exposed for twenty minutes
to a steam pressure of 25 lbs. to the square inch, which
represents a temperature of 267° Fah. At the same time a
tablet of disinfecting soap is given to the occupier, with which
to scrub the wood work of the room.
Solution of corrosive sublimate (1 in 1000), and solution of
permanganate of potash (a drachm in 14-ozs.) are supplied free
on application for disinfection of underclothing, utensils, &c.
The steam apparatus is an old fashioned Washington Lyons,
with only one door, so that articles have to be put in and taken
out the same way and in the same place. It is desirable that
no time should be lost in providing the proposed new building
and improved apparatus by which the articles would be put in
in one room and removed in another.