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important factor and the measures introduced in 1944 to save premature
infants continue in use.
A considerable epidemic of Measles occurred during the year -
364 cases in all. By arrangement with the London County Council only such
cases as suffered from complications or were inadequately housed or, for
other social reason, could not be nursed at home, were admitted to the
sorely-taxed Infectious Diseases Hospitals. It is a reflection of
prevailing conditions in Finsbury that it was found necessary to admit no
less than 87 cases of Measles to Hospital.
It is unnecessary to stress the grave Housing position,
particularly as the demobilisation of the Armed Forces is bound to add
appreciably to the problem. It is perhaps pertinent at this point to
mention that apart from the cases brought to immediate notice, there were
literally hundreds of cases known to the Health Department prior to 1945
waiting patiently for rehousing; cases of tuberculosis in overcrowded
conditions, cases of heart disease living on second and third floors,
cases of the newly-married living with relatives in an atmosphere of
friction, apart from those living in premises already earmarked for
demolition. The question of priority amongst the various hardship cases
is one which requires careful consideration.
These introductory remarks are not intended to be exhaustive,
matters of interest being discussed Glsewhere in the report in the
appropriate sections.
In this, my last report as Acting Medical Officer of Health,
I cannot close without expressing my grateful thanks to the members of
the Public Health and Maternity and Child Welfare Committees for their
most generous support not only in this year, but in tiro other years during
which I have held the post. It would net have been possible for me to
carry out the duties of Medical Officer of Health as well as those of
clinical Tuberculosis Officer without such support along with the wholehearted
endeavours of the staff, during th 23 diffiecult years.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient servant,
A .B.STEWART
Acting Me ddcal Officer of Health