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73
As in the case of Measles, every case nursed at home was
visited by the Health Visitor and leaflets left with the parents or
guardians with a view to advising them as to the care of the patients.
Diphtheria.—The number of patients notified by Medical
Practitioners as suffering from this disease was 20. All the cases
were removed to Hospital for treatment. In 13 cases, however, the
Hospital Authorities reported the patients were suffering from
diseases other than Diphtheria, thus reducing the number to 7. This
is easily the lowest figure returned since notification became compulsory
and when it is realised that even 15 years ago the number was
in the region of 400 this downward trend can be truly described as
remarkable. It would appear that the Immunisation Scheme which
in Greenwich commenced towards the end of 1936 has fully justified
itself.
Of the seven notified cases, one referred to a girl of 5 years who
had been reported as having been immunised in Eire.
There were no fatalities arising from this disease.
Diphtheria Antitoxin.—In accordance with the Antitoxin Order
1910 a supply of Antitoxin is provided by the Council for the use
of General Practitioners.
Two phials, each containing 10,000 units of Serum were supplied
during the year.
Bacteriological Examinations.—Four hundred and one swabs
were forwarded by Medical Practitioners for bacteriological examination
from cases suspected to be Diphtheria. Of this number
391 were reported to give negative or doubtful results and 10 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 be the more favoured as the inoculations
are limited to two whereas three are necessary in respect of the
former antigen.
It was reported by the Health Visitors responsible for carrying
out follow up visits in the new Estates at Kidbrooke that the long
distance from that area to the Seamen's Hospital was proving a
deterrent to the Scheme.
Arrangements were accordingly made in April with the Hospital
Authorities for Immunisation Treatment to be carried out at the