London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London

Southwark 1913

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Southwark, Borough of]

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Table: The number of cases notified, as compared with London, during the last ten years was:—

The number of cases notified, as compared with London, during the last ten years was:—

In Southwark.In London.In Southwark.In London.
190441513,438190959017,251
190577619,461191041910,509
19061,47020,329191148010,489
19071,27525,925191250011,312
190877522,072191388017,552

Table: The Wards most affected were St. Mary, St. Michael, St. George and St. John.Number of deaths from Scarlet Fever during the last ten years:—

The Wards most affected were St. Mary, St. Michael, St. George and St. John.

Number of deaths from Scarlet Fever during the last ten years:—

In Southwark.In London.In Southwark.In London.
190412365190914383
19052854919109214
19064553319116172
19073564419126159
190824548191311188

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Of the 880 cases notified in the present year, as many as 857 were
removed to hospital, i.e., 974 per cent., as against 98 6 per cent. for last
year.
64
1913 being the height of the cycle, we find in that year that the total
number of cases of Scarlet Fever was far below the total number in
similar years, i.e., those years at the height of previous cycles. For
instance, in the year 1913, 880 cases were notified, whilst in 1906, 1,470
cases were notified, and 1901, 1,301 cases were notified. In the ordinary
course the year of expected increase was 1911, and that year in regard
to the smallness of the number of cases occurring was a record year,
only 480 cases being notified.
This extension of the cycle most probably was not due entirely to
any one cause. We have observed for many years past a gradual change
in the type of the disease with regard to both its morbidity and its
mortality. It has become much less dangerous. At the same time I
think it is only fair that the Sanitary Authority should take a little credit
for the improved sanitary condition of the Borough.
The year now under consideration is the top of a cycle year for
Scarlet Fever, which from various causes has been delayed for two years
in its appearance.