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85
affords convincing proof of the value of our present
mode of isolation and disinfection, in the more formidable
diseases of this class. It will be seen from the Table
that there was no death from either Small-pox or Scarlet
Fever. These are two of the diseases in which such
sustained efforts are made to prevent their occurrence
and extension. We owe much to isolation in these cases,
and the rapid and well-arranged manner in which
patients are transferred to Special Hospitals, has proved
of signal service, and has, I believe, prevented an
epidemic outbreak of Small-pox in this sub-district.
This will be very apparent in view of the fact that 20
cases of this disease were sent into Hospital during the
year. In saying this, I do not ignore the value of other
measures, indeed I place the greatest reliance on the
protective influence of vaccination against Small-pox.
In this, as in all other infectious diseases, isolation is of
the first importance. Moreover the disinfection and
fumigation of rooms, clothes, and bedding with sulphurous
acid, and the occasional burning of infected clothes
and bedding, cannot be too highly rated as preventive
measures.
Referring again to the Table it shows that there was
no death from Scarlet Fever; and only 4 cases were
sent into Hospital during the year. Diphtheria had 5
deaths, Enteric Fever 6, Whooping-cough 7, and
Diarrhoea 12.
None of these diseases compare unfavourably with
former years, due allowance being made for altered
population.
Other Diseaspn. These diseases are grouped in the Mortality
Table under six heads, viz:—
Constitutional, Local, Developmental, Violence and
Illdefined.