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34
As far as modern methods of disinfection are concerned, I
am perfectly satisfied that all has been done and all continues
to be done in that direction to prevent the spread of the disease
by fomites. The only weak points in the Municipal Public
Health armour that I can detect I have called attention to.
But whether the suggestions made will be productive of commensurate
beneficial results, time and experience will decide.
In the meanwhile Scarlet Fever still remains a study for
the experts, and the failure to completely subjugate it must
not be ascribed to either lack of enthusiasm or want of efficiency
on the part of the officials of the Public Health Department.
Diphtheria.
Ninety-three cases were notified under this head :—
59 were between 5 and 15 years.
18 „ „ 1 and 5 „
8 „ „ 15 and 25 „
7 „ „ 25 and 05 „
1 under 1 year.
There were in all 5 deaths arising therefrom :—
2 in Langley Park Ward.
1 in Manor House Ward.
2 in Kent House Ward.
Of the 93 cases of Diphtheria I received 64 positive
reports from the Clinical Research Association, the remaining
29 cases were doubtless so obvious clinically that bacteriological
examination was not thought to be necessary. Eightytwo
of the cases were removed to the Infectious Hospital, the
remaining 11 cases being treated at home. Five deaths
occurred; 4 of these were at the Hospital, and were 9 months,
4½ years, 5 years, and 5½years old respectively, the other case
being that of a child of 12 years of age who was treated at
home. Under the heading of Scarlet Fever I have already
called attention to Return cases of this complaint and the
association of Scarlet Fever with Diphtheria.