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 1938
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Southwark, Borough of]
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55
ERADICATION OF BED BUGS.
The methods adopted in Southwark for dealing with infestation of
houses and tenants' belongings were fully described in my Annual Report
for 1937. There has been no alteration in the system during the present
year. Various insecticides are used according to the special circumstances
of the property to be disinfested; they include the following :—
Zaldecide, Deodex gassing solution, Vermicide and Vermicine. Gas
generated from rock sulphur is frequently used, often in conjunction
with one of the above insecticides.
CLEANSING OF VERMINOUS ROOMS AND THEIR CONTENTS.
| During the year 1,683 verminous rooms and their contents were treated by the disinfecting staff. | |
| Council Houses found to be infested | 3 |
| Council Houses disinfested | 3 |
| Other premises found to be infested | 1,680 |
| Other premises disinfested | 1,680 |
TABLE 22. Verminous Bedding, etc., Disinfested at the Council's Station during 1938.
| Articles. | Disinfested. | Destroyed. |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | 263 | 28 |
| Palliasses | 171 | 26 |
| Bolsters and Pillows | 681 | 33 |
| Cushions | 106 | 12 |
| Blankets | 1,494 | 8 |
| Sheets | 891 | 2 |
| Quilts | 553 | 5 |
| Articles of Clothing, etc. | 42,394 | 67 |
| Total | 46,553 | 181 |
In addition, 306 cwts. of bedding, household furniture, etc., were
also destroyed.