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18
asked what accommodation for Small-pox, in the event of an
epidemic, they could grant to Leyton, and what the cost would be.
Naturally, they will want a somewhat higher premium now
than they asked some years ago, but that will have to be faced;
when we consider how much we have saved during those years
through sheer luck we shall realize that even if we now have to
pay more we may still be something to the good.
As to the absolute necessity for providing hospital accommodation
against an epidemic of Small-pox, I entertain not a particle
of doubt. In the unvaccinated condition of the population at the'
present time, isolation and disinfection are the only weapons we
possess against Small-pox, and one shudders to think of the appalling
disfigurement and loss of life which is bound to occur if we neglect
to provide means of isolation.
I may add the cost of an epidemic in terms of money has
been over and over again proved to be many times more, when
remedial'and preventive measures are left until they are actually
needed and until people become panic-stricken, than when they
are carefully and calmly planned during a quiescent period.
As to the likelihood of an epidemic of Small-pox occurring, it
only requires an unrecognised case of the disease to be introduced
into the midst of our susceptible and unvaccinated population
to set up a serious epidemic.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
J. FRANCIS TAYLOR.
On the above report the Committee resolved to communicate
with West Ham and with the South Mimms Hospital Authorities,
and the matter is still sub judice.