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TREATMENT AND BATHING CENTRE
(Superintendent - Mr. T. Lloyd, T. D. )
There was again a considerable decrease in the number of
treatments for verminous conditions of the person carried out at the
Centre during the year. The overall figures for treatments of these
conditions for both adults and children, were 1,387. Of these, 585
treatments were in respect of children of school age for head lice
only. No school children were found to be infested with body lice.
It must be remembered, that, in addition to Southwark schools, children
now also attend the Centre from some Lambeth and Bermondsey schools.
A comparison with the number of treatments for verminous conditions
given at the Centre in 1938 and referred to in the annual report
for that year, will give some indication of the changed aspects of
this problem. In 1938 there was a total of 8,277 attendances at the
Centre for treatment, and of this number, 5, 885 treatments were given
to children of school age.
In regard to scabies, only 424 treatments of 187 individuals
were undertaken during the year. When the numbers treated during the
war years are considered - in 1943, over 12,000 treatments were given
for this condition (then often referred to colloquially as "Shelter
rash") - it will be seen that this problem is now considerably
reduced.
Bed bugs and other domestic pests are still with us, although
to a much less degree than in the pre-war years. The use of modern
insecticides with their long lasting residual effects, have been one
of the main factors in reducing infestations of bed bugs. In addition,
because of the initial disinfestation carried out on removal, each
family re-housed by the Borough Council is assured that they can
start off in their new homes free from these unwelcome pests.
The incontinent laundry service continues to assist many aged
and sick persons who have the additional burden of incontinence added
to their other cares. Over 40,000 lbs. weight of these soiled items
from Southwark and Lambeth cases were laundered during the year.
The laundry is delivered the day after collection - washed, dried,
ironed and ready for immediate use. If necessary, up to three collections
are made each week.
A home bathing service for aged and enfeebled persons was commenced
in August. This service is intended for those aged and housebound
persons who, whilst not requiring medical or nursing attention,
do require assistance in bathing themselves.