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192
COUNTY BOROUGH OF CROYDON.
THE PREVENTION OF CONSUMPTION AND
OTHER FORMS OF TUBERCULOSIS.
Consumption is caused by the growth in the body of minute germs
(tubercle baccilli). These germs will not develop in the bodies of those
who are in robust health and are living under healthy conditions.
The germs are derived from persons or animals suffering from
Consumption.
The phlegm, spit, or expectoration of consumptive persons teems
with the germs of consumption, as also may the milk of consumptive
cows.
instructions to those suffering from consumption.
Early cases of consumption may be arrested, and all cases may
be benefitted by the following precautions:—
(1). Fresh air Bedroom windows should be kept open during
the day and especially at night, and no heavy curtains should
obstruct the sunlight. If necessary the windows may be closed
while dressing and undressing. The Chimney should be left open
and not be stopped up. Stuffy rooms and railway carriages should
be avoided.
(2). The Diet should be ample. Avoid indigestible food.
Alcohol is generally harmful, and should not be taken except under
medical advice. All milk should be scalded.
(3). Clothing should be sufficiently warm to enable patients
to stand the necessary amount of fresh air in their living rooms and
bedrooms. In the winter overcoats and wraps are often of more
service in the house and workshop than when taking exercise out of
doors.
(4). The Phlegm coughed up by a consumptive person is
dangerous when dried, because it becomes powdered into dust and is
breathed with the air into the lungs, thus causing fresh infection in
the patient and others. It is therefore dangerous as well as disgusting
to spit on the floors or walls of dwelling houses, public
rooms, or public conveyances.