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Apart from dysentery, to which reference has already been made,
the occurence of cases of food poisoning and gastro-enteritis has
resulted in a great deal of attention being given by the staff of
this department to advice on personal and food hygiene and in widely
publicising the simple measures which are required to prevent these
conditions. Personal advice is given in the homes by the Public Health
Inspector responsible for the investigations into cases of infectious
disease who also distributed leaflets on the subject. The Public Health
Inspectors also take an active part in this work, both in the homes,
but in particular in the food shops in their districts. The Woman Public
Health Inspector responsible for catering establishments is in a very
good position to advise staff on the subject of food hygiene end the
prevention of alimentary infections.
In April the Public Health Committee considered the question
of Smoking and Health in the light of the report on this subject
published by the Royal College of Physicians and your Medical Officer
of Health was authorised to collaborate with the London County
Council in publicising in the borough the dangers to health of smoking,
particularly of cigarettes. Posters have been displayed on the Council's
notice boards and a large number of leaflets have been distributed.
In the autumn the Council took an active part in the display of publicity
material drawing attention to the danger of delay in obtaining
treatment for venereal disease and this important question was also
referred to in the Civic News. The Woman Health Officer took every
opportunity when visiting old people in their homes of advising then;
of the dangers of home accidents, as well as giving practical advice
in regard to gas cookers and the use of fireguards and so on.
Chest X-Ray Campaign
A Chest X-Ray Campaign organised in collaboration with the South
East London Mass X-Ray Service, was conducted in the borough from June
22nd until July 25th. Various areas were visited during this period and
one unit was based, with the consent of the Chairman of the General
Purposes Committee, at the Municipal Offices from June 22nd until July
6th. Further special visits were made to Newington Lodge and individual
firms during the remainder of July and August. In all, 7671 persons
were examined.
The support of His Worship the Mayor and Members of the Council,
who visited the Unit in the Health Services Department, was most valuable
and very much appreciated. Facilities for publicity were kindly
given by the Chairmen and Members of several of the Council's Commitees.
The success of the campaign was considerably assisted by the willing
co-operation of the Metropolitan Police and volunteers, including in