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94 to 96 per cent. of the bacteria are also eliminated, thus affording
a great measure of protection from infection. These filters have just
recently been set in action and the results are so apparent to the
naked eye that intending bathers will not now need to enquire on
what days fresh water is put in, but will be encouraged to use the
baths at any time, and oftener than they have done in the past.
In accomplishing this good public health work the Baths Committee
are to be heartily congratulated.
Schools.—The sanitary condition of all the public elementary
and private schools is investigated at least once a year by the
Chief Sanitary Inspector. In two of the elementary schools defects
in the sanitary arrangements were found and remedied. The
reconstruction of St. Saviour's Junior School, which has very
evident and serious sanitary defects has been decided upon by
the Managers.
In preventing the spread of infectious disease in schools the
weekly returns sent by the head-teachers of absentees due to
non-notifiable infectious disease are extremely valuable. By
these returns early information of an outbreak is obtained so that
appropriate steps for control can at once be taken. Visiting of the
homes is carried out by the health visitors who give instruction to
to the mothers regarding the prevention and spread of infection
and the care of the patients.
During the year certificates were given to the Education
Committee that the fall in attendance below 60 per cent. was attributed
to the prevalence of epidemic illness in three schools, two on
account of influenza and the third on account of measles. Closure
was not resorted to with regard to any school.
HOUSING.
The housing difficulties in Ealing are just as acute as in most
towns. From 1916 to 1920 only 30 houses were built by private
enterprise and 65 by the Council, and during the last five years,
1921 to 1925, 792 by private enterprise and 208 by the Town
Council. Only the latter can be truly said to be houses for the
working classes. And when one comes to consider the Council's
recently built houses at rentals varying from 15/6 to 22/6 per week