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24
Disinfection.
Disinfection after infectious disease is a matter of great
public importance, and during the last few years many new
disinfectants have been introduced.
It has been usual in the past to fumigate the infected rooms
by vaporizing sulphur, but recent experiments have shown that
this is not the best method; in fact, some bacteriologists have
gone so far as to affirm that it is useless. During the Sanitary
Congress held at York in September last, it was shown that a
substance called Formalin is more efficacious. It has been
proved that Formalin will destroy the most potent germs of
disease without damaging the contents of the rooms. Before
adopting this in our district, I think it will be well to wait until
further experiments, which are now being made, have been
completed.
The disinfection of the clothing of patients after infectious
disease requires most careful attention, and there is no question
that steam under proper conditions is the best germ destroyer
known for this purpose, although it cannot be used in the
homes of the patients.
In a district like Mile End where but few can afford to burn
infected clothing, let alone mattresses and bedding, it is
essential that we should possess the best apparatus obtainable
for ridding these articles of the germs of disease. This matter
has been brought to the notice of the Vestry by me in previous
reports, but I regret to record the fact that we have as
yet no efficient apparatus for this work. Partly from apathy
and partly from economy the matter has not received the
attention which it undoubtedly should. The present Sanitary
Committee, however, after making careful investigation by
visiting and inspecting the systems adopted in various other
districts of London, have realized the necessity of providing
proper apparatus, and contemplate bringing the matter before
the Board with a view of improving the arrangements which
they are of opinion are far from suitable for our present
requirements.