View report page

There are a number of cases in which inflammation develops in
the eyes of recently-born infants, and if the discharge remains watery
in nature and pus does not form the condition need not be classified as
ophthalmia. The infection, nevertheless, may be gonococcal in origin.
Those are necessarily mild cases, but it is important that they should
be recognised and treated at an early stage, because if neglected genuine
purulent ophthalmia might ensue.
Eleven cases were notified during the year, 4 of those being
treated in hospital. There were also 15 instances of watery discharge
from the eyes which were brought to the notice of the health visitors.
All cases of ophthalmia neonatorum are visited as soon as possible after
notification in order to see that adequate treatment is being provided.
Treatment by the district nurses was carried out in 4 cases, 170 visits
being paid.
It is satisfactory to note that although the incidence of ophthalmia
neonatorum has somewhat increased, investigations show that the
infections are much milder in character. At the end of the year, it is
reported that no case of impaired vision had resulted among the cases
notified throughout the year.
Dental Treatment.—The Council's scheme provides for the treatment of
ca6es both under the Maternity and Child Welfare and Tuberculosis
Schemes. Figures relating to the latter will be found in the Tuberculosis
Section of the Report. Expectant and nursing mothers, and children under
five years of age, are eligible for treatment.