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noted that we have now almost achieved this objective.
Maternal Mortality Rate has arisen, although still very
low. It is to be regretted that this rise has occurred.
Poliomyelitis—became a marked feature of attention from
the Public Health Department during the year. There was an
incidence of 15 cases, with three deaths. This is a very difficult
disease to control, firstly because so little is known about the
causative agent, and secondly there can be so many cases which go
undiagnosed during an epidemic; all known contacts were seen
and advised about the precautions to be taken.
Because of the separation of the preventive and environmental
health services, a greater responsibility now rests on the shoulders
of the Medical Officer of Health, because it is only through him
that co-operation and co-ordination of the Council's services can
be effectually carried out. The possibilities, however, are that the
health services will in time bear great fruit.
It will be noted by members of the Council that this changeover
of the Health Services has had an unsettling effect which,
when overcome, will speed up the necessary services under the
National Health Service Act, 1946.
I would like to mention how deeply indebted I am for the
kindly co-operation which has always been given to me by Dr. D.
Latham Brown, Medical Superintendent, South Lodge Hospital.
I would also mention the wonderful co-operation I received from
every individual General Practitioner in the Borough and how
anxious they are to be of help and assistance. Usually there is
some degree of friction between the General Practitioners and the
Health Department, but I am glad to be able to report that I have
never experienced that in Edmonton. I would like to record my
very best thanks to the members of the Council, especially those
members on the Public Health Committee who during the past
few years had to endure the increasing strain of Local Government,
but who at the same time never failed in their courtesy and
consideration of the problems which from time to time presented
themselves to me. I would like to thank my Chairman, Mrs.
Councillor A. M. Glover, who for five years under difficult
circumstances gave the Public Health Department every kindness
and consideration.
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