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Hospital Treatment.—Children suffering from Measles are now admitted, except
where there is pressure on accommodation, under the same conditions as the ordinary
infectious diseases. Two hundred and sixty-eight cases were admitted during the
year, compared with 2 in 1929 and 56 in 1928.
Measles Epidemics.—In December, 1929, the Council resolved to appoint
temporary health visitors during epidemic periods for measles work. Their duties
are to meet the school nurse at the school, obtain from her direct the names of
children suffering from Measles, or suspected to be suffering from Measles, and also
those who are absent from unknown causes, and to visit the homes as soon as
possible. By such temporary appointments the routine work of the health visitors
goes on as usual, and there is no delay in visiting Measles cases, a very important
factor in the control of the disease. During the year two such temporary health
visitors did duty for a period of approximately three months each. The experience
thus gained justified the Council's policy in every way.
Ophthalmia Neonatorum.
During the year eight cases were notified, three of which were admitted to
hospital. Two were notified in March, one in June, one in July, one in August,
two in September, and one in December. Every child recovered from the disease
without any impairment of vision.
Home Nursing.—Two cases were nursed at home, 68 visits in all being paid.
The cost of this service was £3 8s. Od.
Tuberculosis.
The Council's Tuberculosis service has the following ramifications:—
(a) The administration of the various Tuberculosis Regulations of 1912,
1921, 1924 and 1925.
(b) The supply and supervision of shelters at the homes of patients.
(c) Bacteriological examination of specimens of sputum.
(d) The provision of a Tuberculosis Dispensary.
(e) Home visiting of Tuberculosis cases.
(f) Visiting and medical examinations of cases for the Ministry of Pensions.
(g) Arrangements for securing the examination and systematic supervision
of home contacts.
(h) An agreement with the Seamen's Hospital for X-ray examinations m
doubtful cases.
(i) Arrangements for following up cases where the diagnosis is doubtful.
(j) Co-operation between the Tuberculosis Officer and the local medical
practitioners.
(k) Co-operation with the School Medical Service.
(J) Provision of extra nourishment for tuberculous persons.