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marriages.—The number of marriages solemnized in the Borough was 1,686, being a rate of 28 6 persons per
1,000 of the population. This is an increase of 129 marriages over the number solemnized in 1945, when the rate was
31.2. This seeming paradox is accounted for by the fact that the population for 1946 shows an increase of nearly
18,000 over that for 1945.
bacteriological examinations.—At the beginning of the yeaf the Public Health Committee decided that
pathological specimens (other than tuberculosis) and food samples should be sent to the Laboratory at St. Mary's
Hospital for bacteriological examination, instead of the Royal Institute of Public Health as formerly, and it was agreed
that the examinations should be carried out for a fixed annual sum of £220. Examinations of sputa for tubercle
bacilli are still done at the Paddington Tuberculosis Dispensary. The number of examinations made in connection
with infectious disease was 510, classified as follows:—
Disease Examinations Positive Results
Diphtheria 244 3
Typhoid Fever 4 —
Scarlet Fever 36 8
Dysentery 6 2
Tuberculosis 210 28
510 41
water supply.—This has been satisfactory throughout the year. Samples of the water in all stages of purification
are analysed daily at the Laboratories of the Metropolitan Water Board. All new and repaired mains are chlorinated
before being put into use and samples of water from them are tested bacteriologically. The closest watch is kept by
the Board for any form of contamination, and immediate action is taken if the results of analyses are not up to standard.
During the year the M.W.B. reported five cases of water being cut off for non-payment of rates, and in all cases
the supply was reinstated following appropriate action by this Department.
venereal diseases.—The publicity campaign was continued, a further 1,000 bills being posted throughout
the Borough during the year. The metal plates affixed in the many conveniences were also examined and replaced
as necessary.
diphtheria immunisation.—The following tables give information as to the numbers of children immunised
during the year by private practitioners, London County Council school medical officers or at the Council's clinic;
and the estimated numbers and percentages of the child population who had completed a full course of immunisation
at any time up to the 31st December, 1946.
No. of children who completed a full course of primary immunisation No. of children given a secondary or
during the year 1946 reinforcing injection during the year 1946
Under 5 years
5 to 14 years
Total
1,034
189
1,223
30