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higher than medical officers would like to see,
continue to cause concern, As I have just remarked,
it indicates that conditions are being allowed to
exist which act to the prejudice of the public, and
which place the health and sometimes even the life of
our people in danger. It would be dangerous to argue
that food poisoning to-day is mild, that drastic action
is not required, that an illness seldom lasting more
than a few days need cause no very great concern.
This is surely a policy of stark despair. In this
country, with its history second to none in the realm
of promoting health, we should not rest content until
our reputation in the world of food hygiene has been
completely re-established.
In Friern Barnet, with our limited number of
Public Health Inspectors, all of whom have many other
duties to perform, we do our best by periodic visits,
selected inspections, advice, guidance and where
necessary legal action, to improve the standard of food
hygiene in food premises operating within the Urban
District. This seems a never-ending task, as it
must be admitted that we are still far from approaching
that ideal which all of us so fervently desire.
The Public Health Department also takes every opportunity
to address local organisations on the subject of clean
food, the part played by the housewife in this great
effort, and the attitude which should be adopted by
ratepayers. It is impossible to say what impact
these talks have. It is hoped,however, that the
cumulative effect will eventually be felt.
As I write this report, I have just agreed
to a suggestion made by the Central Public Health
Laboratory that Friern Barnet should co-operate in a
scheme for the investigation of all cases of Salmonellae
food poisoning. This investigation is being carried
out, not only in Friern Barnet but in many other districts,
to try to establish the reason why Salmonellae food
poisoning has become so much more prevalent during
the past few years.
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