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54. 153 of the cases were between 1 and 15 years of age.
Since the birth rate is higher in Plumstead than in Woolwich
parish, and the infantile death rate much lower, it follows that
the proportion of children to the whole population is much
greater in Plumstead than Woolwich, and this difference
largely accounts for the higher incidence rate of Diphtheria,
Scarlet Fever, and Measles in Plumstead.
55. 157 cases or 85 per cent. were removed to Hospital.
The case mortality was 7 0 per cent., compared with 8.8 and
9 9 in the two preceding years, and 9.8 in London All but
one of the deaths (12) occurred in the Fever Hospital.
56. The largest number of cases proportionally to population
occurred in St. Margaret's and Central Wards, and the smallest
number in Herbert Ward.
57. School Attendance.—The largest number of cases, viz.,
18, attended Conway Road School.
58. Bacteriological diagnosis.—Swabs from the throat or
nose of 66 persons suspected to have diphtheria were examined
bacteriologically by the Lister Institute of Preventive Medicine.
The result was positive in 15 cases, negative in 45, the pseudo
bacillus was found in 5, and one was stated to contain a few
suspicious bacilli. In 1901, 26 swabs were examined and 7
positive results obtained; in 1902, 97 swabs and 27 positive
results.
59. Mistaken Diagnosis.—19 cases or 12 per cent. of
admissions were found not to be Diphtheria after removal to
Hospital.