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TO THE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE COULSDON
AND PURLEY URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL.
Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have the honour to submit the Annual Report for the year
1958 which has been prepared in accordance with Ministry of
Health Circular 22/58.
The health of the District remains good and the vital statistics
compare favourably with those of the country as a whole.
The situation with regard to the infectious diseases is especially
encouraging. For the first time for six years there has been no
case of poliomyelitis and although the cold wet summer may have
been a factor, this does indicate that immunisation against this
disease is having an effect. The incidence of whooping cough has
also been exceptionally low and immunisation appears to be
proving effective. The number of cases of tuberculosis is the
lowest since 1937. Here again an effective vaccine is available
for young people and the recent extension of the B.C.G. vaccination
scheme to include students attending universities and other
establishments of further education is especially welcome.
In the preparation of this report I am greatly indebted to the
Deputy Medical Officer of Health who was in charge of the Department
from the retirement of Dr. F. R. Edbrooke on 30th September,
1958 until I took up my appointment on 1st January, 1959, and to
the Chief Public Health Inspector.
In conclusion, Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen, may I
express my thanks for your warm welcome to my wife and myself
and the support you have given me since I took up my appointment.
I also wish to express my thanks to the District Inspectors,
the Chief Clerk and the staff of the Department for their loyal
co-operation.
I am, Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
J. B. MORWOOD,
Medical Officer of Health.
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