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Bacteriological examinations.—The number of examinations
made in connection with infectious disease was 338 (283).
Visiting.—Two Visitors, both of whom are State Registered
Nurses, undertake the investigations of cases of infectious disease in
addition to their duties in connection with elderly people which are
reported under " Care of the Aged."
During the year 921 (1,431) visits were made in the course of
these investigations. Food poisoning enquiries are made by the
female Public Health Inspector. The London County Council's
Health Visitors investigate cases of puerperal pyrexia, ophthalmia
neonatorum, infective enteritis and tuberculosis.
International certificates.—During the year 1,941 (2,038)
certificates of inoculation or vaccination were submitted by persons
travelling abroad for the authentication of the signature of the
medical practitioner concerned. This authentication is required
under a World Health Organisation agreement.
VENEREAL DISEASE
Venereal diseases are not notifiable to the local health authority
so that no precise information is available as to the number of cases
occurring in the borough. However, the Ministry of Health during
the year under review addressed a circular to local authorities,
drawing attention to the increasing incidence of gonorrhoea.
Previously, the Director of St. Mary's Hospital clinic drew attention
to the steep increase of new cases of gonorrhoea attending his clinic
in Paddington.
It is considered that a relatively small group of promiscuous
women constitute a most important factor in spreading the disease.
The London County Council under their powers from Section 28
of the National Health Service Act, 1946, have appointed officers
whose duty it is to trace contacts and persuade them voluntarily
to undergo medical examination and, if necessary, receive
treatment.