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carried out by the mother, hence the need for frequent visits by the
official. In a number of cases the district nurses have rendered valuable
assistance. The cause of the infection is frequently gonorrhoea, especially
in the severer forms, and it has been suggested, and it is now under the
consideration of the Council, that facilities should be provided to enable
medical men to have a bacteriological report stating the particular
organism present in the purulent discharge.
Acute Polio-myelitis.—This disease was made notifiable on
1st September, 1911. It is an infective disease affecting chiefly the
nervous system and producing paralysis. The virus can frequently be
obtained from the mucous membrane of the nose, and it is suggested
that it is by that channel that it finds entrance into the body.
Numerous epidemics have been recorded during the last 30 years in the
United States and in most Continental countries. Small outbreaks
have been recorded in this country, but in the last two years these
outbreaks have assumed more serious proportions. The greatest
prevalence is during the months of July, August and September, and
children during the second and third years of life are most commonly
affected, but adults are also liable.
Infected persons as well as contacts should be isolated. The period
of incubation is probably less than 6 days, and the period for isolation
of the infected should not be less than 3 weeks. It is suspected that
infection may be retained in the nose for a considerable time and may
result in fresh outbreaks.
One person suffering from this disease was notified in Westminster,
infection having been contracted in the country.
Cholera.—This disease was prevalent in countries bordering on the
Mediterranean and Black Seas, especially Turkey and Italy. I received
notification from the Port Sanitary Authorities of 27 persons coming
to Westminster from affected districts, and these were kept under
observation.
Plague.—Seven persons came to Westminster from countries in
which this disease existed. Information reached me of a woman who
was suspected to be suffering from bubonic plague. She had arrived in
London shortly before. She was visited by Dr. Cantlie, the expert
engaged by the County Council, and bacteriological examination was
made of the blood and gland contents, and in the result the diagnosis
of plague was negatived.
Glanders.—Two intimations of cases of glanders in horses have been
received from the Veterinary Inspector of the County Council; this
is done in accordance with the provisions of the Order which came