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The advantages of early correction of deformities is particularly noticeable in
the case of squint in young children, where regular use of glasses can correct the
deviation. The fetish of the squint " curing " itself is one of the most tragic in
medicine and although there are exceptions to everything, even in medicine, it
can be stated that the squint only " cures " itself at the expense of the loss of
useful sight in the squinting eye.
(n) Ultra-Violet Light Clinic.—This clinic has continued to serve its useful
function in providing an antidote to the effects of our comparatively sunless winters.
We find that ultra-violet light treatment is useful in summer time, for by using an
appropriate lamp we can give gradual doses under expert supervision. One of the
difficulties of exposing children to natural light for treatment is that it so often
happens that they are given too much in the early stages. This is particularly
seen when children go for a holiday by the sea, where without any previous exposure
they are allowed to run about in the sunshine to which they are not accustomed.
Children who might be expected to benefit from this form of therapy are referred
by the Medical Officers, and during their course of treatment are kept under medical
supervision.
Rickets, malnutrition and chilblains are the conditions which derive the
greatest benefit.
(o) Dental Treatment.—The provision of dental facilities for children of
pre-school age under the supervision of the Medical Officers in charge of the Welfare
Centres is beginning to show very marked results on the growth and development
of the infants' teeth. The value of persistent teaching of hygiene and dietetics
by both departments and the early eradication and arrest of minor decay in the
toddlers is being shown in the great improvement in the teeth of children seen on
admission to the Infants' Departments of the Elementary Schools.
Mothers throughout the Borough are showing themselves very appreciative of
this service and with their continued co-operation we may look forward to a time
when long lists of extractions for these toddlers will be a thing of the past.
(p) Diphtheria Immunisation.—Facilities have been afforded during the year
for the immunisation of children against diphtheria.
Rapid and safely produced immunity can be induced by means of injections,
and nineteen children were immunised during the year.