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20
The expectoration of patients suffering from consumption is loaded
with the germs of the disease, and when this dries it mingles with the
dirt of the compartment, gets lifted up by air currents, and if inhaled
by a susceptible individual he probably falls a victim to the complaint.
Unboiled milk is another fertile source of Infection, as from 40-50 per
cent. of milk cows suffer from Consumption.
In my annual report for 1898 I entered fully into the subject, but I
take this opportunity of suggesting that the following measures be
sanctioned by the District Council, with a view of preventing the spread
of consumption through the infection derived from previous human
sufferers.
(1). That all the medical practitioners in Acton be informed
that the District Council is prepared, on application, to
disinfect (free of charge) all rooms which have been
occupied by patients suffering from consumption immediately
upon such rooms ceasing to be occupied.
(2). That whenever a death from tubercular disease is certified
in the parish a visit shall be paid to the house in which
the death occurred and an offer made to disinfect free of
cost.
(3). That handbills of information as to the nature of the
disease, the ways in which it may be contracted, the
necessity for the adoption of certain precautions, and the
willingness of the District Council to undertake gratuitous
disinfection, be sent to the ministers of religion, district
visitors, school teachers, etc., with a request that they will
circulate these as opportunites present themselves.
MEASLES.
There were no deaths from Measles during the year, which is a
record according to these reports.