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9
I must also refer to the occurrence of two cases of psittacosis
during the year. In both cases budgerigars were kept in the
households, and, thanks to the co-operation of their owners, it
was possible to have the birds examined for infection. In neither
case was this infection confirmed in the birds, but that does not
necessarily mean that they were not the origin of the trouble.
As psittacosis presents itself in the human being as a chest
infection, it may well be that it is more prevalent than its somewhat
infrequent diagnosis would suggest.
The vital statistics are dealt with in full in another part of
the report, so a general statement that all in all they must be
considered satisfactory, will suffice. In addition, it is gratifying
to be able to record that the year was one with a low incidence
of notifiable infectious diseases, full details of which can be found
under the section devoted to this subject.
My final words will be of thanks, first to Mr. Kermode, the
Chief Public Health Inspector for his able administration and
unfailing efficiency. The rest of the Inspectors and staff in general
have all given of their best, and we were sorry to lose the valuable
services of Mr. Downing, one of the Public Health Inspectors
towards the end of the year.
My gratitude is also due to Dr. Kelynack for his willingness
and meticulous attention to detail, and to a whole host of
professional colleagues, in various branches of medicine, who have
given me such helpful co-operation during the year.
My very last words of thanks must be addressed to the
Chairman and Members of the Public Health Committee, all of
whom take such a keen interest in the work of the department,
thus encouraging those whose task it is to implement Committee
decisions.
I am,
Your obedient Servant,
H. B. C. CARTER-LOCKE,
Medical Officer of Health.