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VI
The question of housing is discussed and a brief retrospective note is
made of the various proposals which the Council have explored during
the past five years in endeavouring to find a solution of the difficulties
which are known to exist. It is highly satisfactory to record that the
year 1925 has seen definite progress in housing. Before another year has
passed it is hoped that an addition to the Council's dwellings capable of
housing some five hundred individuals will have been completed.
The Health of the City during the year has been satisfactory. With
regard to Infectious Diseases, Diphtheria and Whooping Cough showed a
higher incidence, while Measles and Scarlet Fever were notably less
prevalent. There was a definite decrease in new cases of Tuberculosis
and also in the number of deaths from that disease. Cancer and Diseases
of the Heart and blood vessels claimed more victims than in 1924. The
fall in the birth-rate has continued and was lower in 1925 than in previously
recorded years, with the exception of 1918.
With a view to the prevention of outbreaks of Diphtheria the Council,
having obtained the approval of the Ministry of Health, have resolved to
institute the Schick method of immunization in connection with the
Maternity and Child-Welfare Centres.
Samples of food taken throughout the year for the purpose of analysis
show that adulteration is continuing to decrease. Spirits received
particular attention and, as a result of the policy adopted by the Public
Health Committee, it has become evident that "dilution" to the prejudice
of the purchaser is being practised on a much smaller scale.
In September the Public Health Department was transferred into
new offices, or what was formerly the first floor of the St. Martin's Lane
Library. The rooms are large, airy,'and admit plenty of sunlight; a
marked contrast to the old quarters.
I have to record with regret the death of Messenger P. C. Neck. He
died in September, 1925, after a long illness. He served the Council with
faithfulness and regularity for twenty-two years.
The names of the Stall of the Department are set out elsewhere as
required by the Ministry.
In July Dr. Ian S. Thomson was appointed Tuberculosis Officer and
Assistant Medical Officer of Health and to act as deputy in the absence
of the Medical Officer of Health. He was formerly Assistant Medical
Officer of Health in charge of the Isolation and Tuberculosis Hospital of
the County Borough of Southampton.