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Sonne Dysentery
There were a few cases of Sonne dysentery in two schools towards the end of
the year. All schools were asked to notify the Department immediately there were
more than two or three children in one class showing symptoms of digestive upset
with diarrhoea. Arrangements were made for the prompt visiting of infected
schools with the inauguration of rigid hygienic measures, based on the bacteriological
and other findings. These measures included regular disinfection of toilet
premises and equipment, the institution of strict hand-washing routine with subsequent
disinfectant hand-dipping, and the exclusion of suspected cases of dysentery
until proved bacteriologically free. The opportunity is taken on such occasions
further to stress the need for replacement of out-of-date or doubtfully hygienic
equipment, and the provision of modern hand-washing facilities and premises.
Scabies
One secondary school had several cases in the autumn, but following inspection
and treatment the incidence was quickly limited.
Notification of Infectious Diseases
Head teachers notified the Department of 509 cases of suspected infectious
disease occurring in school children.
HEALTH EDUCATION
The Department of Education and Science published a pamphlet on Health in
Education. This pamphlet was in accordance with the views expressed by the
British Medical Association that professional medical instruction in elementary
health and hygiene and first aid, be included in the school curriculum.
It recognised as essential that teachers take part in health education at all
levels of the child's school life. For the full integration of health education in the
work of the schools the combined efforts of medical, nursing and teaching staff
are required.
This has been a subject of consultation between the Chief Education Officer
and myself at which it was arranged for me to address a meeting of head teachers
in order to seek their views and to discuss further co-operation in this field.
Health visitors have given 136 talks on a variety of subjects including mothercraft
and personal hygiene to classes of school children.
An anti-smoking film show for school children was organised in co-operation
with the Education Department for teenage pupils at six secondary modern and
three grammar schools. An evening in June was chosen for the show, a time considered
to be the most convenient for the children. Considerable effort was made
by both departments to make it a successful evening.
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