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similarity in the age periods attacked, lends credence to the view
that epidemic influenza is the periodic rise of virulence of the
common complaint. A similar sequence occurs in respect to
Measles, Scarlet Fever, etc. The aggregation of large numbers
of similar ages consequent on the national emergency, may
have had something to do with the evolution of this particular
type of disease.
Hospital Accommodation.
Since 1915 the scope of the work done at the Hospital has
steadily expanded, though Dr. Fenton in 1907-1908 admitted
(18-13) 31 cases of Tuberculosis. In 1909, however, it was discontinued.
In 1912 Tuberculosis was again admitted along with
3 cases of Ophthalmia. In 1914 20 cases of Diarrhoea and vomiting
(infants) were treated, and from that date the number of cases
other than infectious disease has steadily increased. From
1917 onwards the ordinary infectious ailments were less than half
the total number of patients admitted. Up to June, 1919, however,
the admission of general ailments was mainly during periods
of quiescence. From that date onwards a whole unit of the
Hospital (14 beds) was allocated to maternity work. This steady
expansion in the scope of the work attempted may to some extent
weaken the influence of the urgent recommendations made both
by the (Local Government Board) Ministry of Health and the
various Medical Officers as to the pressing need for further accommodation.
The following facts should be carefully borne in
mind :—
The air space necessary per bed for infectious ailments is
1,872 cubic feet.
The Lower Hospital contains 23,000 cubic feet, sufficient for
14 beds.