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introduction of the third, or 'booster' dose, and whilst the number vaccinated in the
eligible age-groups is not entirely satisfactory, much has been done to reduce the
notification rate of poliomyelitis.
The section on the School Health Service is mainly statistical, as this service
quietly and efficiently carries out its statutory obligations to ensure that the
scholars in the Leyton Division are fit to assimilate the education made available to
them.
A major problem to the service is that of the child who is mentally retarded or
emotionally disturbed. In the early days of the school Health Service the poor physical
state of the children overshadowed the less obvious mental maladjustments. Now, with
the improvement of the physical state of the child, more time is required to be devoted
to the problems of detecting and helping the child who is suffering from mental disorder.
I hope that it will be possible in the near future to increase the Child Guidance
facilities in the Division.
It would be remiss of me to close these notes without reference to the excellent
work carried out by my immediate predecessor, Dr. Melville Watkins, and my Deputy
Dr. Mary L.Gilchrist. I also place on record my appreciation of the co-operation I have
received from the Members of the Council, the other Chief Officers, and the staff of
the Health Department since taking up my appointment.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
G.T. CROOK,
Medical Officer of Health.
Health Offices,
Sidmouth Road.
Leyton, E.10.
Tele LEYtonstone 3650
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