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The distribution of the cases was 5 in East Greenwich, 10 in
West Greenwich, 6 in St. Nicholas Deptford and 7 in Charlton and
Kidbrooke.
There were two deaths from this disease, one of which was
associated also with Measles. Neither case had been immunised.
Four hundred and forty-seven swabs were forwarded by
Medical Practitioners for bacteriological examination from cases
suspected to be Diphtheria. Of this number, 441 were reported to
give negative or doubtful results and 6 were positive in character,
being dealt with accordingly.
Diphtheria Immunisation.—Inoculations are carried out by
arrangement with the Seamen's Hospital or through local Medical
Practitioners and, in the case of school children, immunisations are
effected mainly by the London County Council. The antigens in use
are of two types, Toxoid Antitoxin Floccules and Alum Precipitated
Toxoid; the latter appears to the more favoured as the inoculations
are limited to two whereas three are necessary in respect of the
former antigen.
Existing facilities for Diphtheria Immunisation in the Borough
have been more widely used during the year under review than
previously. This was probably due in no small measure to extensive
propaganda, both locally and nationally. In addition to the normal
propaganda, the parents of all children attaining the age of eight
months are circularised with regard to having their children immunised
before or as they reach the age of 1 year. It was estimated
that as a result of such letters sent to parents, 247 children were
immunised under the Council's scheme.