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16
Scarlet Fever.
This disease is at present exhibiting a very mild form, often
no more than a mild sore throat coupled with a characteristic
rash—so that in spite of 402 notified cases (399 of which were
confirmed), there was no death during the year.
The method of active immunisation practised at one time
is now in little use because of its limited value and the high incidence
of reaction. The causative organism, the haemolytic streptococcus,
may still on occasion give rise to severe illness—but control is
readily available with the sulphonamides and antibiotics.
Smallpox.
One person from abroad who was a contact of the disease
came to Ealing and was kept under daily surveillance until the end
of the incubation period.
The decline in the number of primary vaccinations has long
been a source of concern. During the year 1,264 children under
the age of 15 were vaccinated as compared to 2,416 live births in
1951, i.e., about 50%.
The Infant Welfare Centres impress upon mothers the ease,
simplicity and safety of primary infant vaccination. Until recently
all infants were sent to the General Practitioners for vaccination
but vaccination can now be performed at the clinic at the mother's
request.
Tuberculosis.
There has been no marked change during the year with
regard to the number of cases and deaths from tuberculosis in
Ealing.
The schemes which were mentioned in the previous Annual
Report are all still in operation for the early detection and prevention
of the disease. Young children are "Jelly Tested" at the Infant
Welfare Clinics between the age of 2 and 3 years. The adolescent
school leavers are Mantoux tested and B.C.G. vaccination performed
on those who are Mantoux negative. The Chest Clinic follows up
the contacts of notified cases of tuberculosis and B.C.G. vaccination
is offered in appropriate cases.
The Mass X-ray unit visited the Town Hall and the premises
of Messrs. Hoover Ltd. in the summer months. The visit was a
complete success and every appointment was booked before the
unit actually commenced operations. Publicity was given by posters
and through the local press. Bookings were made at the Town
Hall, Public Libraries and local chemists.