View report page

50
number of verminous children found by the School Nurses at
their inspections (details of which will be found in the Report
on the School Health Services) was 120 out of 13,381 children
inspected, and I think I am justified in saying that, despite the
adverse and unsatisfactory housing conditions which prevail at
present, the very low incidence of verminous infestation and
uncleanliness is most satisfactory.
The complete survey and inspection of 12 selected areas,
which was commenced in November, 1946, was finished in June,
1947, the normal rodent control staff of two rodent officers and
one rodent operative being temporarily increased for this purpose.
All properties found infested with rats or mice were
treated, and excellent results were obtained.
In addition, the sewers in the Borough were inspected twice
during the year, and the necessary treatment was carried out
where evidence of rats was found.
The method of treatment is carried out strictly in accordance
with the recommendations of the Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries.
It is evident that there has been a marked decrease in the
rat population during the past two years, through the energetic
activities of the rodent control staff, but continued and constant
attention is necessary if this improvement is to be maintained.
The following figures give an indication of the volume of
work carried out, and include inspectorial and supervisory action
taken by the sanitary inspectors:—
No. of inspections made of
RODENT CONTROL.
(a) Refuse Tips
(b) Trade Premises
(c) Private Premises
3
3008
4336
7347
No. of infested premises: —
(i) Found:
(a) Trade Premises 183
(b) Private Premises 333
516
(ii) Cleared:
(a) Trade Premises 147
(b) Private Premises 263
410
In addition, 53 sewer manholes were baited and treated.