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4
The system that I have instituted of educating the public
by means of Pamphlets and Leaflets has done more to stop
exposure of infected persons than any method previously adopted.
Although I have persistently and constantly urged upon
you the necessity of providing an Isolation Hospital, or making
proper and efficient provision for cases of Infectious Disease, I
regret that I have been so far unsuccessful. With the exception of
Edmonton (where the population in 1896 was estimated at 32,045)
Acton is the only parish in Middlesex with a population over
30,000 which has no means of Isolation.
Paving, Sewering, and Widening of Streets go on year
after year, and cannot but lead to improved health.
The old ill-constructed pan closets and defective ashpits
are becoming rare, giving place to better arrangements, and the
dangerous conditions of house drainage which passed muster at
one time, are, I think, entirely cleared away.
Among the public works of importance may be mentioned
the building of a Cottage Hospital, the gift of Mr. Passmore
Edwards, on a site in Gunnersbury Lane, presented by Lord
Rothschild.
Certain houses unfit for human habitation have been
demolished.
A special report on the prevalence of Diphtheria during
the quarter ending September 30th was presented to you in
November.
The Inspector reports to me that the state of the Cowsheds
and Dairies throughout the district is satisfactory.
I have at intervals inspected the district as occasion may
have required.
I have the honour to be, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
G. A. GARRY SIMPSON,
Medical Officer of Health.