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in the number of Diphtheria cases is due mainly to immunisation
against the disease and if the level of immunisation
falls sufficiently the disease could regain its former
virulence and killing power.
DYSENTERY.
There were 149 cases notified, 76 less than in the
previous year.
In 128 cases Shigella Sonnei was isolated, the remaining
21 cases showing no pathogenic organisms.
The decrease in the number of cases from the previous
year is gratifying but there is no doubt that, as far as
this disease is concerned, much greater improvement can
be made and the observance of proper personal hygiene and
the reporting of even mild cases of diarrhoea are prime
factors in the fight to reduce dysentery to a minimum.
ENTERIC FEVER.
One case of typhoid fever was notified in a girl of
17 years.
While on holiday in Italy she had symptoms of diarrhoea,
vomiting and a raised temperature. These symptoms subsided
and she appeared to recover. A month later, however, she
was admitted to hospital as a case of Pneumonia and a
routine blood test showed S. Typhi to be present.
ENTERIC FEVER CARRIER
The person who has been a Paratyphoid B carrier
since 1948 was kept under surveillance as usual and routine
faeces examinations were carried out at three monthly
intervals. During the year she was admitted to Neasden
Hospital for a course of treatment recommended for such
carriers by the Ministry of Health. Unfortunately however
she was unable to stand the strain of disturbed sleep
while having three hourly injections and discontinued
treatment after three days.
ERYSIPELAS.
Twelve cases were notified, six less than in the
previous year.
FOOD POISONING.
36 cases were notified and 11 of these were confirmed
by laboratory diagnosis.