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During the year Measles declined, also Whooping Cough, and in
general the year was a light one so far as infectious diseases were
concerned. Inoculation against Whooping Cough appears to be
showing an increase in popularity and vaccines of increased
efficiency are now available. It appears likely that within a few
years a considerably greater protection will be available against the
trials of this complaint.
Food Byelaws
The Clean Food Bye-Laws are working well, and it is fair to say
that there is a growing consciousness of the necessity of these on
the part both of the shopkeeper and of the public. Goodwill and
persuasion have proved effective in the vast majority of cases.
Housing
This remains perhaps the greatest problem this district has
to face, and I make no apology for re-stating my opinion that
there is a considerable number of houses which are well substandard.
Little by little some of the worst are being satisfactorily
dealt with, but a considerable area needs clearing and re-planning,
though there appears no probability of this being done in any
appreciable period of time.
Vital Statistics
The population of the district is now static and near saturation
point. The vital statistics compare favourably with those for England
and Wales and show remarkably little variation from last year.
My most sincere thanks to all members of my staff for their
usual untiring patience and perseverance throughout the year.
C. M. SCOTT, m.r.c.s.(eng.), l.r.c.p.(lond.),
Medical Officer of Health to the Council
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