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63
Tuberculosis.
A register is kept of all cases of school age definitely known
to have had phthisis, and if they are in school they are kept under
close supervision. Cases in school are those in which the disease
is arrested, and in which there is no risk of infection for other
children. They are weighed fortnightly, and seen at each routine
inspection. Any loss of weight or other unfavourable symptom
is at once noted, and, if necessary, treatment is advised.
Cases out of school are kept under observation, but at less
frequent intervals. They are all under treatment, and in many
cases are away in the country. The Central Aid Society has given
most valuable help in sending these children away to Convalescent
Homes for long periods, as the usual short term is useless in
such cases.
Unfortunately, the children often relapse on returning to town
life. It would be an advantage if they could attend an open-air
class.
In addition to actual cases, a large number of children are
under supervision for "suspected phthisis." They are children—
often of bad family history—who are below the usual weight,
anaemic, and with chronic bronchitis, i.e., children who are of low
resisting power and tuberculous tendency. They are weighed
regularly, given free meals if necessary, and, where possible,
recommended to the Central Aid Society for country holidays.
These children would also benefit by an open-air school.
Lately arrangements have been made to examine all children
in the schools who are "phthisis contacts," and so are exposed to
special risks of the disease. In this way it is hoped that early cases
may be found while still in the curable stage, and that some cases
may be prevented from occurring. Phthisis in children in early
stages has a very good prognosis.
When the Public Health Department receives a notification
of Tuberculosis, the Health Visitor visits the home to give advice
and obtain particulars. If there are any children of school age