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of children in this age group are provided with full information concerning the
proposed protective measures and are invited to give their consent in writing.
It is necessary to carry out a preliminary skin test to see if the child has a naturally
acquired immunity and this is done at the first of two visits made to each school.
On the second visit the test is read and negative reactors are given B.C.G. Positive
reactors are referred to the chest clinic for an X-ray examination to eliminate the
slight possibility of active infection.
In the case of the smaller private schools where there are not sufficient pupils to
justify a visit, a session is arranged at the Town Hall, and this provides further
opportunity to invite any absentees from other sessions to attend.
The programme usually covers a period of three months and commences soon
after the schools re-assemble after the Christmas vacation.
There is an increasing requirement from employers for junior staff to produce a
certificate of vaccination against tuberculosis, and this trend is welcomed, as no
doubt it will have a beneficial effect on the acceptance rate, when it is realized that
such certificates are required before some appointments can be made.
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