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146
Clothing is now receiving greater attention from the teachers,
and I note with pleasure that in one or two of the schools model
sets of garment have been made to fit children of all ages. These
garments are available as patterns for both parents and children,
and they have, I am informed, been greatly taken advantage of and
appreciated. Valuable help has been rendered in this matter by
the school care committees in conjunction with the health visitors
and teachers.
MALNUTRITION.
242 cases (or 3 per cent.) of malnutrition have been noted
during the year. This is a marked improvement as contrasted
with 1913, when 10 per cent. of badly nourished children were
observed amongst those inspected. The nutrition of a child varies
according to its state of health and its home conditions. Cases of
malnutrition are generally more numerous, amongst children of the
poorer areas. The provision of free meals by the Education
Authority has done much to improve the physique and general
health of children belonging to the classes referred to, and is a very
important factor in the reduction of the number of children suffering
from malnutrition.
EYE DISEASES.
External eye diseases, such as conjunctivitis, inflammation of
the lids, etc., were noted in 124 instances. This number does not
include any of the cases of infectious conjunctivitis or " blight.-'
Where necessary these children are referred to Mr. Wray for
treatment at the Town Hall. Sub-normal vision was noted in 977
instances. All children requiring special examination (either for
defective vision or for diseases of the eyes) are referred to the
Ophthalmic Surgeon.
INFECTIOUS CONJUNCTIVITIS.
An outbreak of this disease occurred in the Princess Road
Schools during the second quarter of the year. The number of
cases occurring throughout the quarter was 138. As soon as the
presence of the disease was discovered prompt and drastic measures
were taken to prevent its spread. A treatment clinic was established
at the School and a health visitor put in charge. This clinic
was held every morning throughout the week with the exception of
Sunday in order that the progress of the disease might be watched
and to ensure regularity and thoroughness of treatment. The
School Medical Officer visited the school frequently and examined
ali the children with suspicious symptoms, and the moment a case