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18
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
The single case of typhoid fever gave some concern. The patient was
a school boy who had been on holiday abroad and returned to a large
voluntary home in which children eat in a dining hall, and sleep in dormitories.
They attend various day schools in Croydon. In this boy's dormitory
there was an outbreak of mild epidemic vomiting shortly after re-assembly
in which the patient was involved. He was so obviously more seriously ill
that within 24 hours he was admitted to the sanatorium and transferred
four days later to hospital where a diagnosis of typhoid fever was made.
From the date of onset it was clear that he had been infected whilst abroad
but there had been many contacts after he fell ill. A careful balance was
maintained between measures to prevent the spreading of infection and disrupting
the education of the children, As usual Dr. Thomas, the Public
Health Bacteriologist gave invaluable help, and the Medical Officer, Matron
and other staff at the home were co-operative, cautious and diligent. No
subsequent case of typhoid infection arose, confirming that with care it is
not a disease spread easily to contacts. The danger lies in infected water
or food.
Measles was only slightly less prevalent that in 1970. Evidence elsewhere
suggests that vaccination must involve over 90% of susceptible
children to eliminate this infection and this has so far not been achieved
in Croydon.
Immunisation
With no cases of poliomyelitis or diphtheria reported, the numbers
receiving protection against these diseases were disappointingly low. It
was a reflection of the diminished use of Child Health centres and new
techniques will be needed to overcome this trend.
Vaccination against rubella proceeded without difficulties.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
There was little change in the incidence of syphilis, but the number
of cases of gonorrhoea and "other conditions" reach new record high
figures. To enable health education courses in schools, which include the
prevention of such infections, to cover all older pupils an increase in the
establishment of health education officers was approved. There were delays
in the re-building of the special clinic at the Croydon General
Hospital, and no request was forthcoming for contact tracing staff. Posters,
and leaflets regarding risks and treatment facilities were circulated but
it seems doubtful if the knowledge of dangers will prevent indulgence.
Research on possible vaccines is now being undertaken and results are
awaited.
For other figures see Appendix page 120.