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Food Poisoning.
In March, 1956, investigations were carried out at a local factory following
a report that 15 employees had complained of sickness during the night and
the meal eaten the previous day was suspected. Sixty meals were served.
The canteen manageress and 13 of the affected persons still at work were
interviewed and details obtained as to dates and times of the symptoms, and
particulars of food eaten.
Two samples of food from the suspected meal were submitted for
bacteriological examination and organisms of the food poisoning and dysentery
groups were not found. Specimens of faeces were obtained from six of
the affected persons and in two instances food poisoning organisms were
found.
It was thought by the Bacteriologist that the outbreak was probably
caused from infection of the stock used at the meal, but unfortunately at the
time of the investigation no stock was available for sampling.
Two subsequent samples of the stock taken showed the presence of
organisms which indicated that the stock had not been sterilised during
cooking.
The matter was taken up with the Caterers and suggestions made as to
the preparation and storage of stock. Also every assistance and advice was
offered to the Caterers on Food Handling and Kitchen Hygiene.
No further cases were reported from the factory.

Pneumonia.
78 cases were notified during the year.
Poliomyelitis.
During the year 4 confirmed cases of Poliomyelitis (3 Paralytic and 1
Non-Paralytic) occurred in the Borough. Notifications were received in July
(3) and December (1).
There were no deaths from this disease.
16 caseswere notified in 1955.
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