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Infectious diseases, particularly a mild form of Diphtheria
and Dysentery, continued their nuisance value causing considerable
dislocation in the affected schools and in a few homes, but no
serious concern was felt at any time. It might seem from
experience that a new modified form of Diphtheria has arisen but
there can be no certainty at present, that it may not revert to
the virulent form that was so prevalent up to the war, and still
occurs from time to time.
The various services on behalf of the elderly were continued
as before and again large numbers of visitors from other parts of
the country and overseas came to see and discuss these services.
The shortage in the number of Public Health Inspectors due
to vacancies in Establishment which it has not been possible to
fill, have caused difficulties in dealing with the many problems
of Clean Air, Food Hygiene etc.
A most important event in regard to the future health
conditions in the Borough occurred when confirmation was given
late in the year to the clearance of the slum properties in King
Square and neighbouring streets, and before long it is hoped this
area will be transformed to provide good housing on modern
standards.
It was a great pleasure to the members of my department when
Councillor J.Trotter who had been Chairman of the Health Committee
for many years and had given them constant encouragements in their
work, was elevated to the office of Mayor, and I thank him for
his friendly help in both capacities.
It is also a pleasure to welcome your elevation Mr. Mayor,
for you too have been associated with the Health Services tor
many years both as a member of the Council and also in your
personal undertakings. May I respectfully give you, the Chairman
and members of Health and other committees, my cordial thanks for
all the help given.
Finally, I should like to say that I have received many
compliments on the work of my department, and that these in so
far as they have been earned, are entirely due to the keen and
loyal work by my staff in my name. It is a pleasure to be able
to place this on record and to offer them my genuine thanks.
I have the honour to be
Your obedient Servant,
C.O.S. BLYTH BROOKE,
Medical Officer of Health.