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
Barking 1908
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Barking]
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The following table shows the distribution and number of infectious diseases during the year in the Public Elementary Schools of the district.
| Schools. | Scarlet Fever. | Diphtheria. | Total. |
|---|---|---|---|
| North School | 56 | 4 | 60 |
| Gascoigne Road | 8 | 6 | 14 |
| Westbury | 16 | 5 | 21 |
| Church of England | 12 | 5 | 17 |
| Roman Catholic | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Creeksmouth | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Castle | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 93 | 21 | 114 |
In concluding my first report to you I cannot forget the cordial
support I have received from all the Head Teachers, without
exception. Their assistance and co-operation has been most
ungrudgingly given. The parents of the children have responded
in a way most unexpected by me, and have given all information
asked for, I think only one case objected, to which objection I
made no demur.
I am confident that, if tactfully and conscientiously carried
out, medical inspection of school children will prove of the greatest
utility in advancing the physical well-being of the nation.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
(Signed) C. F. Fenton.
P.S. — In dealing with defects discovered—(a) If the parent
was present the conditions were explained and the proper course
indicated; (b) If the parent was not present, either the Head
Teacher sent for one of the parents to attend at some future time
and explained my opinion, or the Lady Inspector visited the home
for the same purpose.— C.F.F."