View report page

21
Infectious Diseases and Schools.
Following a suggestion of the Local Government Board, an
arrangement is in force between the Council and Education Committee,
under which the Head Teachers of the various schools notify
the Medical Officer of Health all absentees suspected to be suffering
from any infectious disease.
By this means we become aware of many slight cases of
infectious diseases which would otherwise escape us. We are thus
able to visit the houses, and give instructions as to the precautions
necessary to be taken. These cases are also reported to the School
Medical Officer.
GENERAL HOUSING CONDITIONS.
There is in this, as in other districts, a shortage of houses, and
the matter has been receiving the close attention of the Housing
Committee of the Council. As a result arrangements were made
for the erection of some 600 houses in different parts of the
District. Of this number 301 have been completed and occupied,
and the remainder are in course of erection.
Even if these 600 were erected this would not meet the demand,
and a great shortage would still be present.
Overcrowding.
Considerable sub-letting took place during the War to
accommodate the large influx of workers required at the several
factories in the District. This sub-letting still continues, with the
result that theie is considerable overcrowding. This state of affairs
will remain until more houses are provided, but every endeavour is
made, in any case that comes to the knowledge of your Sanitary
Officers, to secure the best possible arrangements for sleeping
accommodation.
Fitness of Houses.
The classes of houses in the District vary considerably, some,
both large and small, have been standing for many years. Owing
to the restriction of labour and materials during the War, repairs,
which, up to that time had received continued attention, came
practically to a standstill, with the result that since the Armistice a
good deal of leeway has had to be made up; but your Officers as a
rule find owners ready to carry out the necessary repairs, so that a
considerable amount of work has been carried out. The principal
defects found were in connection with roofs, gutters, yard paving
and sanitary fittings; there was also dampness in walls and in a
number of cases internal repairs and cleansing were necessary.
Unhealthy Areas.
There are no unhealthy areas in the District,