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N.B.—The patient himself is the greatest gainer by the above
precautions, as his recovery is retarded and frequently prevented
by renewed infection derived from his own
expectoration.
6.—Persons in good health have little reason to fear the infection of
Consumption. Over-fatigue, intemperance, bad air, dusty
occupation, and dirty rooms, favour Consumption.
With regard to the several questions to be found on the Agenda
paper it seems to me to be necessary in Question 1 that the consent
of the patient, or the friends, should be obtained before the
notification is made. This will prevent inquiries at any time being
made in unsuitable cases.
Question 2.—It appears to me to be unnecessary to have two
medical men notifying the case under a period of six months,
except where the patient removes to another part of the
district.
Question 3.—The notification of moribund cases from the
Council's point of view is not required, as all such cases
appear in due course upon the death returns.
Question 4.—This question is the most important of all. It has
been stated, and in my opinion with great force, that
Phthisis should be detected before any physical signs are
apparent if a permanent cure is to be effected. If that is
so, how necessary is it that in all cases of persistent morning
coughs the sputum shall be examined. I have advised
the Council that money spent in this direction will produce
a return of untold value. Of course the Council will do this
free of expense to the medical practitioner, and without
the slightest publicity.
Question 5.— Every practitioner will see the force of the literature
being sent to him in order that he may give it to the
patient. With this object it will be noticed that the precautions
for phthisical patients are printed without the
name of the Local Authority appearing on them.
The Council as heretofore will disinfect rooms after every death
from Phthisis, and at the change of residence of those so
suffering, or whenever the medical man in attendance thinks
such disinfection necessary.