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18. MATERNAL MORTALITY.
Cases of deaths due to pregnancy or childbirth are investigated.
During the year two confidential reports have been submitted to the Maternal
Mortality Committee on mothers, one of whom died during pregnancy and the
other shortly after the birth of her child. In both cases the medical practitioners
have given their opinions that the deaths were not due to pregnancy or childbirth.
Similarly, cases of puerperal fever and puerperal pyrexia are the subject of
investigation, and any necessary steps are taken to secure adequate nursing and
hospital facilities for the patients. If necessary, cases are nursed in the infectious
fever hospital, and although there have been two cases of puerperal fever and
seven eases of puerperal pyrexia, there have fortunately been no fatalities.
19. INSTITUTIONAL PROVISION FOR UNMARRIED MOTHERS,
ILLEGITIMATE INFANTS AND HOMELESS CHILDREN.
We have not, in Barking, any institutions which make provision for unmarried
mothers, illegitimate infants and homeless children, but we are constantly in touch
with the Public Assistance Committee and the various voluntary agencies which
deal with these cases.
20. INSTITUTIONAL PROVISION FOR THE CARE OF MENTAL
DEFECTIVES.
Institutional provision for the care of mental defectives does not come within
the scope of the Council's activities, but great interest is taken in this problem,
particularly in so far as it relates to children and young persons.
21. AMBULANCE FACILITIES.
(a) A motor ambulance is provided for the removal of infectious cases to Barking
Hospital.
(b) lor non-infectious and accident cases, two motor ambulances are kept at
the Fire Station, the ambulance and fire services being run in conjunction under
the Chief Fire Officer.