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19
Bornholm Disease.
During June and July, a small outbreak occurred of Bornholm
Disease (Epidemic Pleurodynia) which is not a notifiable condition.
This disease was first fully described in 1932 following an outbreak
on the Is land of Bornholm. The disease has an acute onset with symptoms
which may simulate severe cardiac, pulmonary or abdominal disease.
It fortunately has a rapid course with a low mortality and the patients
are usually fully recovered within a few days.
Twenty-two cases were reported amongst the patients, staff and their
families of a children's hospital. The Medical Officer of Health informed
the general practitioners in that area of the presence of the disease.
Some further cases were reported but there was no general epidemic.
International Certificates of Vaccination and Inoculation.
Arrangements continued during the year for the authentication by
the Medical Officer of Health of International Certificates of Vaccination
and Inoculation completed by medical practitioners in Westminster.
These certificates are required by passengers proceeding abroad from
this country, and the purpose of the authentication is to provide proof
to those health authorities abroad who desire it that the signature of
the person issuing the certificate is that of a registered medical practitioner.
Some 1,344 certificates were authenticated during the year.
Care of the Aged and Infirm.
There were 60 new cases brought to the notice of the Department
during the year by medical practitioners, district nurses and others, on
account of illness, inability to care for themselves and insanitary
conditions. Altogether, 327 old people living alone have been the subject
of visits by Sanitary Inspectors.
There were no cases in which it was necessary to invoke the provisions
of the National Assistance Act in regard to compulsory removal.
Welfare of Old People.
The Minister of Health in Circular 11/50 outlined suggestions for
developing better collaboration between local authorities and local
voluntary organisations in promoting the welfare of old people.
The Minister referred to the provision under the National Assistance
Act, 1948, of residential accommodation for old people by County and
County Borough Councils and by voluntary organisations, but stated
that the great majority of old people will continue to prefer to live
ordinary lives in their own homes, and that many of them cannot do
so in reasonable comfort without help and interest from outside.
The Minister pointed out that the Act of 1948 encouraged the provision
of this help and interest. He mentions the great value to the old
people of mobile meals services and social and recreational clubs and that