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77
men in the Borough. For this purpose suitable "outfits," containing
the necessary apparatus for transmitting material to the
laboratory have first to be prepared. These "outfits" can be
obtained on application at the Town Hall, or at any of some six
depots situated in various parts of the town.
Accompanying these "outfits" are printed directions as to how
the material should be obtained and forwarded to the laboratory.
On arrival at the laboratory the contents of the " outfit" are
examined bacteriologically, and the result communicated to the
medical attendant, either by telephone or by telegram, if the result
is positive, and the case be one of diphtheria or enteric fever. All
other reports are sent by post, unless there is any special urgency.
(2).—Similar examinations are made of cases of " sore throat "
reported to the medical officer by school teachers, and of a large
proportion of " contacts " in invaded houses.
(3).—Specimens of milk are examined from time to time for
special purposes. Should inoculation be necessary, the samples are
sent to the Lister Institute.
(4).—Specimens of the public water supply are examined from
time to time. Arrangements should also be made for this to be done
periodically, though under present conditions this is not practicable on
account of the large amount of other routine work.
(5).—Sundry specimens from cases of suspected glanders and
other rare diseases, and specimens of diseased meat are also examined
when required.
Microscopical Examinations are made in cases of suspected
ringworm ; also in certain cases of the tissues of diseased animals
slaughtered for human consumption.
Chemical Examinations are made in connection with special
investigations of the *public water supply, and of various sewage
effluents.
* Specimens from the various wells are also examined periodically by Mr. Dibdin-