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As pointed out in my last report, there are, of course, numerous
circumstances contributing to the deplorable infantile mortality in
our large cities, but improper feeding and contaminated milk are the
most important factors in the problem.
Probably the present-day mother, in towns, is no better informed
upon infant needs than her forbears of 50 years ago; for although
her level of general education is undoubtedly higher, she has fewer
opportunities of making herself practically acquainted with the
infant's needs. Labour is making an increased demand upon the
female worker, and, in increasing numbers, almost as soon as she
leaves school, does she become engaged in some form of labour away
from home; so that she very frequently marries without any knowledge
or experience relating to infants or home management. There
can be no reasonable doubt, therefore, that specially trained Health
Vis'tors are needed in the community, and that these, by a patient
sympathy and tact, are able to provide just that sort of knowledge
which must lead to a great reduction in the wastage of infant lives.
In all parts of the country where such work has been undertaken,