London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Barnet 1968
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Barnet]
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Treatment of sewers to reduce the level of infestation is carried out three times a
year, and is preceded by test baiting. Fluoracetamide, a dangerous poison, is used
and the work is carried out by a specialist firm under contract. The arrangements for
this work and its supervision are made with the co-operation of the Borough Engineer
and Surveyor.
The following table summarises the work carried out and is in the form required by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.
| Properties other than Sewers | Type of Property | |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Agricultural | Agricultural | |
| 1. Number of properties in the district | 117,537 | 41 |
| 2. (a) Total number of properties (including nearby premises) inspected following notification | 2,944 | 8 |
| (b) Number infested by | ||
| (i) Rats | 2,126 | 3 |
| (ii) Mice | 649 | - |
| 3. (a) Total number of properties inspected for rats and/or mice for reasons other than notification | 385 | 4 |
| (b) Number infested by | ||
| (i) Rats | 218 | - |
| (ii) Mice | 5 | - |
The Rodent Operatives made 14,426 visits during the year.
DISINFECTION AND DISINFESTATION
Facilities for steam disinfection and disinfestation, and for the personal
cleansing of verminous persons remain the same as for previous years. The treatment
of females and young children is done under the supervision of a woman attendant
specially employed.
Requests for advice and assistance in dealing with insect pests increase in
number and range over a wide variety. Many of these insects are of no public health
significance, but steps are taken to assist in all enquiries. Again, thanks are due to
the Director of the Department of Entomology of the Natural History Museum for the
helpful co-operation of his experts in the identification of numerous insects.
During the year 64 requests for the hire of a squirrel trap were received.
65