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The evidence of both scabies and body lice has remained low,
although a considerable number of children, mainly dealt with by the
London County Council as Education Authority, were found with head lice.
Home visiting has only been carried out in connection with the
somewhat rare cases of persistent or recurrent infestations in the same
family.

Nearly all the cases of body lice were casual residents from a
common lodging house, some of whom were sent on suspicion only as being
infested.
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE BY PESTS ACT 1949
Rodent Control:
The work of rodent control within the Borough of Finsbury continues
as a large scale operation, and it is pleasing to record that the rat
population shows signs of a further big reduction.
During 1962 Rattus Norvegicus (Common Rat), has been the chief
cause for complaint and undoubtedly due to concerted effort,the presence
of Rattus rattus (Ship Rat) has been almost eliminated. It is signficant
however, that the presence of the house mouse appears to be more widespread
than in previous years,although no particularly large infestation
has been found.
Rats in the sewers continue to require constant attention although
the quarterly use of Sodium Fluoroacetate (1080) has been very effective
in reducing the size of infestation generally with total clearance in
some areas.
For this work the Council employs a Rodent Officer, Assistant
Rodent Officer, Foreman and six operatives, who, in view of the
extensive Block Control Scheme operated, and the number of contracts
held in connection with business premises, this staff is kept fully
employed.
It is pleasing to record that both residents and the occupiers of
business premises within this Borough have been extremely co-operative
in all matters concerning rats and mice and as in past years it has not
been necessary to serve any Statutorv Notices or take legal proceedings
under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act.
Number of complaints received Eusiness premises 57
Private dwellings 89
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