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ii.
The incidence of notifiable Infectious Diseases remained low
with the exception of Measles, which was much the same as 1942,
and Scarlet Fever, which showed a considerable increase.
Immunization against Diphtheria has proceeded steadily, and
the number of children now immunised is estimated at approximately
70 per cent, of the total child population. Diphtheria
incidence has remained remarkably low, and only 2 deaths
occurred in the Borough throughout the year.
Full statistics are given of patients treated in Mayday
Hospital because this information is of value to other similar
hospitals. The hospital is classified under the Emergency
Hospitals Scheme as a Number One General Hospital, and
arrangements have been made to have 250 beds always ready for
emergency and another 250 to be available within 48 hours.
The major cause of death remained the same as in recent
years, namely, diseases of the Heart and Circulatory system; the
figure rose from 5.25 per l,000 of the population to 5.34. Since
1939 this figure has risen steadily each year. Deaths from
diseases of the Digestive System remained at practically the same
level as in 1942.
There has been a continued incidence of skin affections,
particularly noticeable in the case of Scabies and Impetigo.
Influenza deaths increased from 19 to 75.
Considered as a whole, the vital statistics show that
Croydon's health has been maintained during 1943.
Some increase in the number of cases of Pulmonary Tuberculosis
notified is manifest. An increase of 13.6 per cent, in the
number of new cases occurred over 1942. This increase was confined
to men and was in the 25—35 year group.
The Maternity and Child Welfare Services have functioned
very fully throughout the year. The commencement of Wartime
Nurseries has opened up a new branch of activity which is
proving of value in the care and training of the pre- school child.
Attendances at Infant Welfare Centres returned to their pre-war
dimensions.