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DIPHTHERIA
The complacency of the town generally towards the ever-potential
danger of diphtheria was shattered by the occurrence of a sharp
outbreak of diphtheria which occurred in the autumn. An account
of this outbreak as submitted previously to your Public Health
Committee is set forth as an Appendix on pages 37 to 44.
POLIOMYELITIS
The sole case of poliomyelitis diagnosed during the year was
not confirmed by virological examination and there was no paralysis.
CARE OF THE AGED
Throughout the year Health Visitors continued to visit the aged
in their homes, and resulting therefrom action was taken in many
instances to procure necessary treatment and help where needed.
One of the most appreciated services which is given on the recommendation
of the health visitor's visit is domiciliary chiropody. This
is provided by the Barking Old People's Welfare Committee and at
the end of the year 184 old people were receiving this service, an
increase of 50 over the previous year.
It is interesting to note that the average age of the people receiving
this service was 77 years.
During the year there has been constant and cordial contact with
hospitals receiving the chronic sick and with the County Welfare
Department.
ESTABLISHMENTS FOR MASSAGE AND
SPECIAL TREATMENT
Licences were renewed during the year in respect of three establishments
which are governed by the Borough's bye-laws.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
Once again the Borough Council's laundry service proved an
invaluable adjunct to the services provided in the home to care for
the chronic sick. During the year 44 cases were assisted.
PATHOLOGICAL SERVICE
Dr. T. Elias-Jones was appointed Consultant Bacteriologist to
Barking Hospital during 1956. Alterations and improvements have
since been carried out and new equipment installed which enables
the laboratory to increase the scope of the services to patients.
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