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26
INFECTIOUS DISEASE.
Diphtheria.
Two cases were notified during the year—the same number as
in the previous year. Diphtheria immunisation is undoubtedly the
most important single factor in reducing the incidence of the disease.
In the last three years, only nine cases have been notified. The
table which gives the state of immunisation in children undei the age
of 15 years shows that the percentage immunised undei the Council's
scheme was, in 1947, 54.8 per cent. It must be borrne in mind
that this table only includes those children whose immunisation was
completed in Beckenham. For one reason or another, a number of
children were treated in other areas. Medical Inspection in the
schools shows that it is comparatively rare to meet with any school
entrant who has not been immunised prior to entering school.
This work has been done in Beckenham since 1928, and complete
records have always been in the possession of the Public Health
Department. After July 5th, the County Council will be responsible
for carrying out this service, and, presumably the records will
be kept in the County Health Department at Maidstone. Immunisation
is an essential part of the control of infectious disease, and it
seems to me that the authority which will remain responsible for this
control should be in possession of all the information and records
which relate to it.
Diphtheria Immunisation.
Annual Return for Year Ended 31 st December, 1947.—This
return is required from every local Authority whether or not it is
itself the Authority responsible for the carrying out of immunisation.
1. Immunisation in Relation to Child Population.

During 1947 a continued effort was made to protect children
between the age of one and two years, and also to give reinforcing
doses to children on reaching the age of 5 years. 869 new cases completed
treatment and 490 old cases had extra doses, compared with
922 and 493 for 1946.