View report page

5
Infectious Diseases
If for no other reason, 1957 will certainly be noted for an
influenza epidemic. Although there was ample warning of the
likelihood of "Asian" influenza, no simple measures could be
advised to prevent its spread. The forecast that it would be
mild in character was upheld and in Croydon, the general upset
to the adult community was less than anticipated. Vaccine for
special groups became available somewhat late and reports of
adverse reactions did not encourage those for whom it was issued.
As far as can be judged, it would be difficult to justify the
effort required to vaccinate large numbers of the population
against this form of infection.
The campaign for vaccination against poliomyelitis
developed slowly because of shortage of vaccine, but as earlier
fears of possible ill effects proved unfounded, the demand
increased.
In the early part of 1957, there was an outbreak of
measles, with a record number of notified cases.
That improvements in nutrition and hygiene do not reduce
the numbers inwalved in such outbreaks of respiratory infection
is disappointing. Clearly, it would be unreasonable to attempt
specific immunisation as used against dangerous illnesses such
as poliomyelitis or diphtheria. The problem of enhancing
general immunity to all infections remains unsolved and 1957
»ith influenza and measles, as striking examples, shows that
much further research is still needed.
Personal Health Services
No major changes are recorded, but existing schemes were
improved in detail and developed as required. The new administrative
centre and hostel for District Nurses was completed by
the end of the year.
Health Education
The importance of this function was recognised by the Corporation
appointing a Health Education Officer to the staff of
the Department. Attention was given especially to the difficult
task of convincing smokers that there is a direct causal relationship
between the smoking of tobacco, especially cigarettes,