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38
In all cases of small-pox, scarlet fever, diphtheria, typhoid
fever, puerperal fever, and measles, visits have been paid
by the Medical Officer of Health or one of the Inspectors,
instructions have been given as to the most efficient means of
isolation, and the precautions to be observed to prevent the
spread of infection. Disinfectants (perchloride of mercury in
cases of typhoid fever, and carbolic acid in other cases) have
been issued free of charge. Notifications, prohibiting attendance,
have been sent to schools ; and, where necessary, persons have
been warned not to pursue their occupations. Whenever
possible, cases have been removed to the Croydon Infirmary.
Upon the receipt of a certificate of the termination of a case
from the medical attendant, infected rooms have been fumigated
by the officers of the Council, and subsequently cleansed
thoroughly by owners. Disinfection of 111 houses was thus
carried out. Ultimately, after periods varying for different
diseases, notices permitting attendance at school have been given.
At the commencement of the year, arrangements were
completed for the removal of all infected bedding and clothing
to the steam disinfector, attached to the Croydon Infirmary,
where 2,675 articles have been disinfected during the year, with
comparatively very few complaints of damage from owners of
the clothing.
In cases of typhoid fever, the excreta pails have always
been provided for the reception of all infected material, and
periodically removed to the Sewage Works, where the contents
are burnt.
In cases of puerperal fever, infected bedding has been
destroyed, and compensation paid.
The shelter for the accommodation of persons temporarily
displaced from their homes during disinfection, which was
provided at the end of 1893, has been very useful occasionally,
and, doubtless, when better known, advantage will be more
frequently taken of it.