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It was again found that a number of children did not attend the
Clinics for the final Schick test; particularly was this the case where
a private doctor had given the injections. The fact that 11 children
out of 282 still gave a 'positive Schick reaction, and required a fourth
injection, demonstrates the importance of Schick Testing.
The apathy shown by the public towards the question of active
protection against diphtheria is to be deplored. It has been estimated
that only 117 per cent. of the population under 15 years has been
immunised.
A further point of importance is the fact that an attack of
Diphtheria does not necessarily confer immunity, and a recent worker
has shown that 10 per cent. of those who have had the disease remain
susceptible. These people respond well to artificial immunisation.
A circular letter, explaining the working of the immunisation
scheme, and mentioning the extreme desirabilty of parents taking
advantage of it, is sent to each parent in the Borough soon after the
child has attained the age of one year. In addition, where routine
visits are made by the Health Visitors, the importance of diphtheria
immunisation is stressed, and a pamphlet is left at the house. In
spite of these measures, but a small percentage of the child population
of the Borough has been protected from the ravages of this dangerous
disease. In certain cities abroad, such as New York and Montreal,
the incidence of diphtheria has assumed almost negligible proportions
since the introduction of protective inoculation on a large scale.
In order that we may achieve our object, the public must cooperate
to the fullest extent, and in this the support of the family
doctor is essential. Preventive medicine has been given a new and
invaluable weapon in the fight against disease. Let us make the fullest
possible use of it.
One child who had been given anti-diphtheria inoculations was
notified as suffering from diphtheria eight months later, and admitted
to hospital. The child had not been brought to the Schick-testing
Clinic, although the parents had been asked to do so. The Medical
Superintendent of the Hospital reported that all throat cultures had
been negative and the condition suggested streptococcal tonsillitis.