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that due to post-natal causes has shown a decline. Much of the
credit for the saving of many lives is due to the admirable work
which has been done for some years past at the Council's Maternity
Centres. If in future we hope still further to reduce our
rate of infant mortality, it will be necessary to diminish the number
of deaths from ante-natal causes. This can only be accomplished
by undertaking more ante-natal work at our Centres,
where the expectant mother is taught how to safeguard the health
of her unborn child.
Causes of Death.—A tabulated statement showing the principal
causes of death is given in the Appendix (Table B.). It is
desirable, however, to make a few comments on it here.
There were no deaths from Small-pox or Enteric (typhoid)
Fever.
There were 2 deaths from Scarlet Fever. This disease as
a cause of mortality is negligible to-day, and of a very different
nature to the Scarlet Fever of twenty-five years ago.
It is a matter for regret that there were 7 deaths from
Diphtheria. Delay in the adequate treatment of any disease
diminishes the patient's chance of recovery, but in no disease is
delay more deadly than in Diphtheria. Last year a certain
amount of public discussion arose from a suggestion that gross
neglect of diphtheria cases should be reported to the Coroner,
and this discussion was of value in directing attention to the
gravity of this disease and to the need for prompt measures in
its treatment.
Diphtheria Anti-toxin is supplied by the Town Council, and
for the convenience of doctors it is kept at the Town Hall, the
Isolation Hospital, the School Clinic and at the two Maternity
Centres.
Measles caused 3 deaths.
Whooping Cough caused 7 deaths.
Summer Diarrhoea caused the deaths of only 3 infants during
the year. This disease is fly-borne; and, in the absence of flies,
the summer diarrhoea is non-existent. The cold and wet summer