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Jaundice (infective Hepatitis).
For the last twelve months an unusually
large number of cases of Jaundice has been
reported. The first intimation of the
outbreak was in October when a private medical
colleague requested help regarding a case.
Since then the local medical profession in the
Borough have supplied information of the
occurrence of such cases while, in addition,
the teachers in some schools have also been
reporting cases. To the end of May, 1943,
300 cases, with one death, have been reported.
The first 250 cases have been analysed in
detail and Dr. Ford, late Deputy Medical Officer,
has published an account of the Wembley experience
in "The Lancet" (May 29th 1943).
Sex incidence: 144 Males
106 Females
Age incidence: 0 - 5 years 8
5-10 „ 116
10-15 „ 82
Over 15 „ 44
In the middle of November there was a
sharp rise in the incidence falling mainly on
2 schools (Fryent School and Roe Green School).
In Fryent School 78 known cases occurred
amongst 77& children on the register and 2 of
the staff were affected. No satisfactory
explanation can be offered, so far, as to why
this school was singled out for such a heavy
attack.
The figures regarding age incidence
point to the relative escape of the children
under 5 years of age. This has also been
borne out by experience in the war-time Day
Nurseries. At Neeld Crescent Day Nursery
25.