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93
by the large number of girls who had no symptoms but were found to be
carriers of the infection. Because of the high carrier state, it was thought
prudent to carry out surveillance over a prolonged period and it is pleasing
to be able to report that, by the end of the year, all the girls remained free
from infection. The families deserve considerable praise and thanks for
their co-operation and for putting up with many inconveniences in order
to prevent the spread of this infection to other residents in the Borough.
The carrier of paratyphoid mentioned in previous reports underwent
a further course of treatment which was successful in curing the infection.
Whilst immunisation against enteric fevers is undoubtedly a very
valuable procedure, the protection conferred is not of a high order and,
consequently, if the infection is heavy or its virulence high, inoculated
persons may contract the disease. When these diseases do occur in
previously immunised people the severity does not appear to be diminished.
Further disadvantages are that an ideal course consists of three doses
spread over six months and, that for continued protection, a booster i?
required every 12 months.
DYSENTERY AND FOOD POISONING
Between 1942 and 1953, the total notifications received for dysentery
and food poisoning for the consecutive four year periods were as follows:—
95, 64, 91. Between 1954 and 1961 there was a marked generalised increase
and the comparable figures were 314 and 237. Between 1962 and 1965 the
total notifications received had dropped to 109, the figures for 1965 and
1966 being 31 and 22. Whilst this is a gratifying trend, it is far too early
for any relaxation of effort.
Control of these diseases lies in the hands of the public themselves
in that all that is required are simple routine hygiene measures.
All cases are followed up by the Department to try to trace the
source of infection.
SCARLET FEVER
In general, scarlet fever nowadays is a relatively mild condition and
the only difference between scarlet fever and acute tonsillitis of streptococcal
origin is that the particular strain of the organism produces a toxin
which causes a rash. With modern therapy the infection is usually controlled
before the notification is received and there is a body of opinion which
regards notification of this condition as valueless.