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people are so mildly affected that they do not even think of consulting
their doctor. Herein lies the danger of spread of the disease,
and it would be well if more people realised that it is now known
that the virus is carried in the bowel and excreted in the faeces,
whence it may return to the mouth by contamination. One is
almost tired of the voice crying in the wilderness "Wash your
Hands" yet here again is another excellent reason why it should be
heard in the cities as well.
In the U.S.A. earlier in the year, announcement of a vaccine
to prevent Poliomyelitis raised many hopes, but these were dashed
by the tragic events which followed so soon. British research,
however, has been progressing on similar lines and it is hoped that
a more suitable vaccine will be available for trial in this country
during the next year.
The chances of any one person contracting paralytic poliomyelitis
are small and are negligible compared with the risks of fatal
or disfiguring injury even in the home. I wonder how many of the
people who worry about poliomyelitis have adequate fireguards
in the homes, keep saucepan handles and hot teapots out of reach
of childish hands, and have no loose mats to trip the unwary, to
mention only a few possible hazards.
Christmas mail in the Public Health Department included the
provisions of the Food and Drugs Act, 1955, some of which were to
come into force on 1st January, 1956, and the rest on 1st July, 1956.
Although not as stringent as some people would wish, they foreshadow
a large increase in work for Public Health personnel, and
should result in a rise in the standards of hygiene among food
handlers.
There has been much movement of staff in the department
during the year, and for some time a reduction in numbers of
Sanitary Inspectors, which has thrown an extra burden on those
remaining. I should like to record my appreciation of the manner
in which they have undertaken this and of the continued and loyal
support of all the staff. My thanks are due to members of the
Council, and in particular the Public Health Committee, for the
way in which they have borne with and supported me during the
year.
I am, Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
V. SHAW,
Medical Officer of Health.
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