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similar type of infection. Yet the junior departments of the same schools in
different parts of Essex did not suffer at all from this complaint. In my opinion
this shows that the school children did not take the infection with them. This
opinion is corraborated by the fact that, among the children left behind in Leyton,
the incidence of impetigo was exceptionally low.
Scabies : This complaint has shown, in common with other parts of the
country, a rising incidence in the last few years. Children who remained in
Leyton also suffered a good deal from this complaint, although they are not included
in these returns as they were not at school when they were treated at the
School Clinics. A large number of children were considered to be suffering from
scabies and treated with sulphur ointment when all they had was urticaria or
cheiroporapholyx. The sulphur treatment only irritated the condition and
caused a secondary dermatitis which was very difficult to eradicate. The eating
of too many apples, and the prevalence of gnat bites, complicated the incidence of
conditions mistaken for scabies.
Enuresis : Accurate incidence figures were very difficult to obtain. By the
time the School Medical Officer reached the schools, many children had been sent
home. A great many of these were probably suffering from temporary enuresis
due to fear. One could not assess the percentage incidence of this defect among
elementary school children owing to the changing numbers of the evacuees.
Children blamed for being bed-wetters in one billet never gave trouble in a new
billet, and vice versa. It was a common thing to be told by Head Teachers that
bed-wetting was " rampant," but when they were asked to give the actual names
of offenders the numbers dwindled in a startling fashion.
PROVISION OF MEALS.
The provision of meals to children attending the elementary
schools is undertaken by the Education Authority under powers
granted by Sections 82-85 of the Education Act, 1921.
The average number of children fed per week :—
Prior to evacuation (2.9.1939) ... ... 415
After evacuation (4.9.1939 to 31.3.1940) ... 26

The above figures relate to the financial year ended 31st March,
1940.