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oysters. The origin of the oysters was traced, but it was found that
during this period the oysters were bacteriologically examined and
reported upon as being satisfactory. As from time to time oysters
give rise to suspicion when investigating sporadic cases of typhoid such
as this and it is extremely difficult to definitely fix the responsibility
for the origin of the disease, it is desirable that all oysters should be
thoroughly cleansed, as they can be, before sale. As in the case of
other articles of food it is for the members of the public to demand the
hygienic standard they desire.
PARA-TYPHOID FEVER.
Two unconnected cases of paratyphoid fever were notified, one
being an inmate of one of the Mental Hospitals in the District. The
other case was removed to hospital. Both cases recovered.
The source of infection could not be traced in either case.
SCARLET FEVER.
The hope expressed in the last Report that after three years of
increased incidence, with 119, 124 and 117 cases in the years 1934-36,
the fall to 62 cases in 1937 would prelude a further reduction in incidence
was not completely realised.
Waves of this disease have occurred at intervals of about seven
years, and it was hoped that lower figures would be recorded during the
next few years. As, however, the rise to 71 cases in 1938 was only
slight, a reduction or at least a stabilisation at about this figure in the
next few years may be expected.
As in 1934 and 1936, Coulsdon West was the Ward most affected.
ERYSIPELAS.
There were 13 notifications of erysipelas during the year as compared
with 14, 12 and 11 in the last three years. Of these 3 were patients
in the Mental Hospitals, the remaining 10 being unconnected cases
scattered over the District. One case only was admitted to hospital.
No deaths occurred.
PUERPERAL PYREXIA.
Five cases were notified as compared with 7 last year.
Four of the cases were admitted to Queen Charlotte's Hospital
and 1 to the Wandle Valley Joint Hospital.
All the cases recovered.
OPHTHALMIA NEONATORUM.
Only 1 case was notified and was removed to St. Margaret's Hospital.
The child recovered without impairment of vision.
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