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In the majority of the cases where improved housing conditions
are considered necessary for the limitation of the spread of infection
appropriate action has been taken within a reasonable period of
time.
Once again an appeal is made for prompt notifications of infectious
diseases. Avoidable embarrassment is still being caused on
occasions by the delay in information being given to the Public
Health Department.
The department was busily engaged in the early part of the year
in completing a full housing survey for the Council, and the first
Clearance Area (Albert Road) for many years was declared by the
Council. We may look forward to several years of activity in housing
matters, but at last a clear picture of the needs of the area has evolved.
This work is fully detailed in the Chief Sanitary Inspector's Report
and is certain to retain high priority over the next few years.
In the meantime the other routine works of the department have
not lessened in any respect—in particular no effort has been spared
to enforce food hygiene, in which food retailers in the district have
co-operated. The sampling methods have proved very satisfactory
and have resulted in action in several cases.
With regard to Rodent Control, it would still appear that no
diminution of effort can be permitted if the infestation is to be kept
at a reasonable level.
Finally the usual, but none the less sincere thanks to all members
of my staff for their untiring work during the past year—and also
to the Chief Officers and staff of other departments of the Council
for their ever ready help and co-operation.
C. M. SCOTT,
Medical Officer of Health.
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