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- 10 -
SMALLPOX AND VACCINATION.
No case of Smallpox was notified as occurring in the Borough
during the year. Of the 1,588 births registered in Chelsea during 1941
1,070 were successfully vaccinated - a percentage of 67,4 (Figures for
1948 are not yet available). The National Health Service Act, 1946,
came into operation on the 5th day of July, and at the same time,
compulsory vaccination ceased. Where vaccination is desired, however,
this can be obtained at a weekly clinic held at the Violet Melchett
Infant Welfare Centre, Flood Walk, Chelsea.
TUBERCULOSIS.
73 new cases of pulmonary and 8 cases of non-pulmonary
tuberculosis were notified. In addition, 56 new cases came to the
knowledge of the Medical Officer of Health from other sources. The
total number was, therefore, 137. (Pulmonary - Males: 59. Females:65
Non-Pulmonary - Males: 3. Females: 10) The total number of deaths from
all forms of Tuberculosis was 28, being a death rate of 0.5 per 1,000 of
the population.
The total number of cases of Tuberculosis in the Borough on
the 31st December, 1946, was 375. (Pulmonary - Males: 156, Females: 18
Non-Pulmonary - Males: 13, Females: 23).
TUBERCULOSIS DISPENSARY AND SPECIAL GASES.
During the period 1st January to 4th July, 118 new cases were
examined. Of this total, 33 were found to be definitely tubercular.
164 contacts were also examined. The number of attendances (including
contacts) was 710, and 1,408 visits were made by the nurse and social
worker to homes of patients. 43 patients were referred to the
Tuberculosis Officer by medical practitioners. 66 specimens of sputum
were examined, and 536 X-Ray examinations were made in connection with
the work.
CHELSEA TUBERCULOSIS CARE COMMITTEE.
By the end of June, the Committee had met on three occasions
and given consideration to 78 cases. Social services in co-operation
with voluntary societies were continued.
ARTIFICIAL PNEUMO-THORAX TREATMENT.
During the period 1st January to 4th July, 42 patients had
received attention, which necessitated 539 treatments. The total cost
(£282.18. 6.) was borne by this authority.
EXTRA NOURISHMENT.
During the same period, 30 patients were in receipt of extra
nourishment as part of their treatment, at a cost of £113. to this
Council.
The Government's scheme to provide maintenance allowances to
tuberculous persons undergoing treatment continued until the 4th July.
Thirty-one patients received maintenance allowances.