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causes of pollution. The time will undoubtedly come when the
prevention of pollution of the air we breathe will be treated just as
seriously as the provision of a pure water supply.
In Stoke Newington the greater part of the pollution is from
domestic fires and as stated in the main section of the report, much
can be done by the installation of modern solid fuel burning
appliances, and what is more important, the use of coke and other
smokeless fuel in these appliances.
In December, 1952, the Council decided to organise a Clean Food
Campaign throughout the Borough and a suggested outline of the
course of action to be taken was submitted to the Public Health
Committee and approved. The proposals included lectures,
film shows and demonstrations to Food Handlers and extensive
advertising both in the Press and on the Advertising Boards
throughout the Borough. Further details regarding the Campaign
will be found in this report under the Section dealing with food.
The problem of the old person still remains a source of anxiety
to the Public Health Department. Several cases of elderly and
infirm persons were visited during the year by the District Sanitary
Inspectors.
Home Help Services were provided where necessary, and with
the assistance of the Old People's Welfare Association hot meals
were supplied. Several cases of old persons requiring hospital
treatment were dealt with and admissions to hospital were effected,
not without some difficulty, and involving a considerable amount
of administrative work.
From reports received a number of these old people who have
been admitted to Old People's Homes are happy in their new
surroundings, and are considerably better, due to the care and
attention they have received, and which has been instrumental
in prolonging their lives.
Dr. C. F. Stott, the Deputy Medical Officer of Health, has
given valuable assistance to the Department by visiting a number
of difficult cases of old and infirm people.
1 should like to express my appreciation and thanks to His
Worship the Mayor and to the Chairman and Members of the
Public Health Committee for the help and support I have received
from them since I commenced my duties as Medical Officer of
Health.
My thanks are also due to the staff of the Public Health Department
who have worked loyally and efficiently throughout the year.
S. KING,
Medical Officer of Health.
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