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If this sample of population, approximately ten per cent, of the
total population, is a true picture of the whole, it may well be said
that there are at present in the population some 428 persons with
undiagnosed tuberculosis in various stages of development. It is
known that the average yearly number of new cases notified is 78.
As this statistical conclusion may give rise to some alarm, it
should not be overlooked that there exists in the population a natural
immunity to tuberculosis which prevents the infection developing into
a crippling disease or reaching a state needing notification.
All the General Practitioners in the area were notified of this
possible reservoir of infection.
The work of the Mass X-Ray is, in truth, a preventive service, as
it enables early diagnosis, and early treatment and protection to be
inaugurated, and so preventing the disease becoming a crippling illness.
It is economical in that occupation of hospital beds is limited, and
the patient, with successful treatment in the early stages, is able to
become a productive unit. More frequent surveys are desirable and
will be welcomed.
FOOD POISONING.
One case of Food Poisoning was notified during the second
quarter of the year 1951. This was an isolated case and the agent was
not identified.
OTHER INFECTIOUS DISEASES.
In addition to the infectious diseases enumerated above, notifications
were received as under: —
Dysentery 6
Erysipelas. 7
Pneumonia (all forms) . 52