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Southgate, and would have been unbelievable not so many years
ago. Here, of course, one must issue a word of warning. The
number of deaths concerned is so small that a very few additional
fatalities would greatly increase the rate. This is a point which one
must always bear in mind.
The Birth Rates and Death Rates for the Borough were both
low, but call for little comment at this juncture. The infectious
diseases picture was satisfactory, especially in so far as the type
of case met with during the year was extremely mild. The number
of measles cases recorded (421) was extremely high, but the
epidemic caused no alarm and seems to have run its course without
severe after-effects.
It is my very pleasant duty to express my sincere thanks to
the Aldermen and Councillors of the Borough Council and to the
members of the Public Health Committee for their continued
support. This is no lip service. The support which the Public
Health Committee has given its staff over so many years, and
which I personally have enjoyed for more than 22 years, has been
a constant source of help and inspiration, without which our
burdens must surely have increased. I should also like to thank
the staff of the Public Health Department for their loyalty and
team-work throughout the year. Once again, the tribute is sincere.
As before, ! would especially mention the work of Mr. A. E.
Gooday, Chief Sanitary Inspector. Mr. Gooday has been of
undeviating assistance to me throughout the year, and has never
failed to accept any responsibility which I asked him to shoulder.
I am, Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
W. C. HARVEY,
Medical Officer of Health.
Town Hall,
Palmers Green, N.13.
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