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the disease. With the discovery of the tubercle bacillus came the fact that
Phthisis is an infectious disease, and can therefore be combatted on the same
lines as other diseases of a like nature.
There is no reason why the offspring of tuberculous parents should become
tuberculous if proper measures be taken to guard from the risk of infection.
The fact that consumption "runs in families" is due to the great risk of
home infection, a fact which is well expressed by the saying, "There is more
danger in the family house than there is in the family tree."
Tuberculous Sputum.—On no one single point was there greater agreement
than on the potent influence of the sputa of the tuberculous patient in
spreading the disease.
Filthy and disgusting as is the practice of indiscriminate expectoration in
the streets, and in public conveyances, this is the least objection to it.
The pathogenic bacilli are always present in the sputa of infected persons
in enormous numbers, and, when dried, are carried into the air, and
liable to infect any person who furnishes a suitable soil for their
development. The sputa of tuberculous persons must be regarded as the
main factor in the spread of the disease, and hence it follows that the loathsome
habit should be sternly repressed by special legislation.
There seems no reason why one excretion more than another should be
freely deposited in our public places, even if healthy ; but, if infected, such
deposition should certainly be treated as a crime.
Already, in some countries, the offence is so considered, and heavy penalties
inflicted upon offenders.
Alcoholism and Consumption.—It was also plainly demonstrated that
Alcoholism and Tuberculosis are closely allied, and it is now generally
admitted that the influence of alcoholism on consumption is a very powerful
one, especially in cases where persons lead a sedentary life.
Prevalence of the Disease.—As an encouragement to the general
movement, it is well to note the fact that the disease has already shown a
marked tendency to diminish in every age group in both sexes during the
years 1851-1899.
Notification.—While compulsory notification is urged by many Authorities,
there is still considerable difference of opinion upon the subject.
Many towns have already adopted voluntary notification, and with good
results.