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63
Forty-nine eases occurred in children under one year of age,
479 between 1 and 5 years, and 388 between the ages of 5 and 15.
The outbreak began in April, reached its peak in later June,
finally subsiding towards the end of August. Twenty-three cases
were removed to hospital. There were no fatalities.
Whooping Cough.—Of 388 notifications, 3 were not confirmed,
so the net total becomes 385. Of these, 206 occurred in East
Greenwich, 73 in West Greenwich, 15 in St. Nicholas, Deptford, and
91 in Charlton and Kidbrooke. Forty-three cases were under 1
year of age, 221 between 1 and 5 years, and 119 between the ages of
5 and 15. Fourteen cases were removed to hospital. There was
one fatality.
In recent years, due to the relative mildness of these diseases
and the pressure on hospital beds, removal to hospital is undertaken
only where circumstances warrant it, so that the majority of
Whooping Cough and Measles cases are treated at home.
Diphtheria.—Nine confirmed cases occurred during the year
and there were no deaths. Four of the cases were in persons over
21 years of age.
Since compulsory notification was introduced the lowest
recorded figure was in 1947 when the total of cases was 7. There
is no doubt in my mind that the Diphtheria Inoculation Scheme
sponsored by the Council has fully justified itself as shown by these
figures.
Antitoxin.—In accordance with the Antitoxin Order, 1910, a
supply of Antitoxin is provided by the Council for the use of
General Practitioners in emergency cases. Two requests were
dealt with during the year.
Bacteriological Examinations.—Four hundred and eighteen
swabs from suspected Diphtheria cases were forwarded by Medical
Practitioners for bacteriological examination. Of this number
410 were reported to have given negative or doubtful results, but 8
were of a positive character and, as such, were dealt with accordingly.
Immunisation.—Up to 30th June the Diphtheria Inoculation
Scheme continued under the control of the Council. In July
responsibility passed to the London County Council under the
National Health Service Act, 1946.