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19
Details are set out as to the best insecticide to use for cases of
severe infestation. The preparation is known as Lethane Hair Oil
(384—"Special").
In order that this preparation may have as much publicity as
possible, I give below the instructions for use, as required to be
included by makers on bottles containing the preparation:—
(i) Amount to be applied to each head varies from about half a
drachm, in the case of a child with short hair, to about two drachms
tor a woman with long thick hair (one half to two teaspoonsful) ;
(ii) Method of application—Part the hair with one hand and
apply the liquid to the scalp itself with a dropper held in the other
hand. This should be done in about eight places, four on each side.
Then spread the oil evenly over the scalp by gently massaging with
the fingers. Do not distribute by combing, as this tends to draw the
insecticide away from the scalp;
(iii) Do not apply oftener than once a week;
(iv) The head should not be washed for a week after treatment,
unless the scalp becomes much reddened. If this occurs the
hair oil should be washed off at once;
(v) Lethane hair oil does not remove nits from the hair, though
it kills those that are wetted by it. To remove nits, whether alive
or dead, the hair must be combed, preferably whilst it is wet, with
a fine metal comb;
(vi) The preparation must be carefully labelled "For External
Use Only".
Instructions, in accordance with the Circular, have been given
to the Health Visitors. The problem is not a major one in Romford,
and those who are infested are generally old offenders. These are
known to the Health Visitors, and are dealt with in the appropriate
manner.
(d) Scabies.
As mentioned in my Report of last year, an arrangement is in
force whereby cases of Scabies requiring institutional care can be
removed to Oldchurch County Hospital for treatment. The Medical
Superintendent of this Hospital has continued to notify this department
of cases belonging to this area, who have been admitted, so
that the necessary follow-up can be done. A scheme also exists
whereby the School Medical Inspectors send a notification of cases
found in the schools, at the same time indicating whether treatment