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8
There were no serious outbreaks of infectious diseases but
total notifications show a large increase due particularly to measles
and dysentery. The latter illness has affected mostly young school
children and the supervision and bacteriological control throw
considerable burdens on the staff resources. A measles vaccine
is now being developed and perhaps by next year extensive clinical
trials can be undertaken by the Medical Research Council. Six
notified cases of food poisoning were reported and the incidence
of whooping cough increased; there being 35 cases notified. It is
not certain how many of the cases had been effectively immunised
but this illness, in the early years, can be most debilitating and it
is essential that the maximum numbers of young children are
protected.
The established services in relation to the elderly were
expanded still further and two new ventures were inaugurated.
One was the introduction of an experimental lunch club to augment
"Meals on Wheels", which was commenced in the Minor
Hall in October. This is being run by the Old People's Welfare
Association, with the financial assistance of the Borough Council,
who are also making available the Hall letting at a favourable rate.
The other was the commencement of a limited chiropody service
for the less able-bodied and physically handicapped of the older
groups. The Borough Council have also completed the purchase
of a holiday hotel at Westgate-on-Sea for the use of the old people
of Greenwich, and a full description is included in the report.
Certain alterations are required and it is anticipated that the hotel
will be in full occupation by the early spring of next year. This
new facility should allow upwards of 1,000 old people to be offered
a holiday every year and will be a valuable asset.
The main legislation directly affecting the department is the
new Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act, 1963, and a synopsis
of the main provisions is included. The effective implementation
of the Act will require the engaging of at least another Public
Health Inspector, but compulsory improvements of conditions of
work in offices and similar establishments are long overdue. As
regards atmospheric pollution, another extensive area included in
the Smoke Control Order No. 6 awaits ministerial confirmation.
In considering the year under review, one can be satisfied
that the progressive outlook of the Council has been continued and,
notwithstanding any changes which may be impending in London