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1917
4
A lowered birth-rate was expected, but it is doubtful
if we were prepared for the great reduction that has
occurred.
Coupled with a greatly reduced birth-rate, we have a
higher infantile mortality. Although the infantile mortality
was lower than that of 1915, it was considerably higner
than that of 1916. Space will not permit me to enter into
all the causes of this increased mortality, but I ought to
point out some factors which were beyond our control.
Five newly born children were found dead in open and
other spaces in the district, and probably these children
did not belong to Acton.
The illegitimate birth-rate was higher last year, and,
in spite of a^l efforts, the infantile mortality remains
higher amongst those born out of wedlock. 60 illegitimate
births were registered last year, and 23 of the deaths
under 12 months were of illegitimate children, giviug an
infantile mortality of 371 per 1000 births.
The death-rate in 1917 was slightly lower than in
1916, but an examination of Table 1 will show that from
at least two of the principal diseases, Acton shows up
badly.
From Measles the death rate in Acton was '67 per
1000 inhabitants compared with '30 in the whole of
England and Wales. The question was discussed by the
Health Committee earlier in the year and negotiations
were opened with the Committee of the Cottage Hospital
It was hoped that arrangements could be made with the
Cottage Hospital for the home nursing of cases of Measles,
but, unfortunately, the Committee of the Cottage Hospital
did not see their way clear to undertake the work. 1 he
Council should again consider the question, and a scheme
will shortly be placed before the Health Committee.