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to make the maintenance of a high level of immunity difficult
immunity in children now must be wholly artificial, as the natural
immunity caused by attacks of diphtheria is non-existent. It is
not always easy to persuade parents to protect their children
against a danger of which they have no personal knowledge.
Similarly, the district has been fortunate in having had no
case of smallpox. The nearness of London and Northolt Airports
constantly reminds one of the ever present danger of the possible
importation of a case, and of the consequences which could follow.
The only protection against smallpox is efficient vaccination, and
the most satisfactory time for vaccination to be done is in infancy.
Then the reaction is least, and complications are almost unknown.
Further, revaccination, if required because of contact with the
disease, or for purposes of travel abroad, then becomes a simple
procedure, whereas primary vaccination in an adolescent or an adult
can be a much more painful and disturbing undertaking.
The incidence of poliomyelitis declined during the year, and
there were eight fewer cases than in the previous year. Much work
is being done on the problems associated with the transmission of
this disease, but there is still a great deal to be learnt, and
in the present state of knowledge it is probable that scattered
cases and even epidemics will occur from time to time.
The routine work of the Department in connection with food
premises has been steadily pursued during the year. Personal
contact with the food trader and food handler is, I am convinced the
correct method, and although not spectacular, is bound to bring
results in time
During the year the Mass X-Ray Unit visited the district, and
the results of the survey are given in the Report.
Finally, I would like to thank the Chief Sanitary Inspector
and the other members of the Staff of the Public Health Department
for their loyal support to me, and also the Chairman and Members
of the Public Health Committee for their great interest and help
in the working of the Department.
I am,
Your obedient Servant,
O. C. DOBSON
Medical Officer of Health.
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