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54
The epidemic of 1927-28 was more severe than its predecessor
of 1925-26. The deaths during the six months ended
31st May, 1928, numbered 1,357, as compared with 1,034 during
the six months (November to April) of 1925-26.
Measles is responsible for more loss of life during the
biennial epidemic than Scarlet Fever and Diphtheria combined.
A prominent obstacle to preventative action is the difficulty
of securing early knowledge of the first cases, and for some
years past efforts have been made to speed up the machinery
of voluntary school notification. A scheme of control was
inaugurated in 1921 as a result of a Conference between the
London County Council and the Metropolitan Boroughs.
The object of the scheme may be briefly summarised as
follows: —
(1) The earliest possible notification of cases to the
Medical Officers of Health of the Boroughs,
through the school organisation and local Public
Health and Voluntary Services.
(2) Better understanding among parents of the fact that
measles is a dangerous disease which, if neglected,
may lead to death or serious physical results.
Propaganda can best be accomplished through the
medium of Health Visitors, talks to parents,
leaflets, etc.
(3) Improvement in the care and nursing of children
suffering from measles, including a proper period
of convalescence.
(4) The provision of nursing, through District Nursing
Associations, so that children can be properly
treated in the home.
(5) Immediate removal to M.A.B. Hospitals or Infirmaries
of all children suffering from the disease if proper
care and treatment cannot be provided at home.