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79
The practice of dealing with infested houses in Leyton is as
follows:—
Where bugs are found to exist in houses, an inspection is made of
the premises by one of the Sanitary Inspectors. The procedure
followed depends upon the extent of the infestation. Where it is
only slight, advice and instruction regarding bugs are given to the
occupier, who is also told to examine the pictures, bedding, bedsteads
and other furniture, and to thoroughly cleanse the same.
The rooms are then sprayed by a member of the Public Health
Department staff with a special insecticide solution. Where the
infestation is extensive, the owner of the house is written to requesting
him to remove all woodwork, i.e., skirting boards, architraves,
etc., and to use a blow-lamp when these are removed. The room
is afterwards sprayed with the special solution and the walls (if
papered) stripped, cleansed and distempered. Should bugs recur,
the premises are again sprayed.
The importance of cleanliness and the danger of re-infestation
by means of second-hand furniture is emphasised to the tenant.
It was found necessary in 62 cases this year to have the rooms
sprayed a second time.
The average cost to the Council of this method of dealing with
verminous houses amounts approximately to a little more than four
shillings per case; the total cost during the year, including the cost
of chemicals and labour, amounting to £71 7s. 6d.
To deal efficiently and effectively with bug infestation much
time is required, great care must be exercised and expense is a
factor to be borne in mind when adopting new methods.
T
It is essential that not only the owners, but also the occupiers
must be made to realise their responsibilities in the matter.
Much can be accomplished by advice, persuasion and co-operation
with all concerned. From experience it is learned that where
there is absolute cleanliness there is very little evidence of the
presence of bugs. On the other hand, bugs are very often brought
into clean houses by means of second-hand clothing, books and
furniture. The greatest difficulty is to find an easy and quick way
of getting rid of bugs in old and dilapidated property.
Soap, water and paraffin is a cheap and easy method of dealing
with slight infestation.