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Simple screening tests are performed and the main task is geared to
the detection of defects in children at as early an age as possible,
particularly those on the observation register, their general development
being carefully watched and a social assessment made. Pfook Cube
Symbol tests were introduced for testing 3-5 year olds later in the year
on the advice of the newly appointed ophthalmologist although the
Sheridan-Gardener tests will continue to be used for suitable children
of this age. The problems of the future education of handicapped children
are considered from the time of diagnosis of the defect and the pre-school
phase is utilised as an assessment period for each child, the actual assessment
carrying on into school life. The progress of these children is carefully
observed and the mother supported and counselled as to how best she
can help her child.
Facilities for immunisation are available at child welfare sessions,
vaccination no longer being offered as advised by the Department of
Health and Social Security in Circular 12/71.
The National Survey of Congenital Rubella Defects commenced
during the year and the medical officers of local authorities are taking
part. Children thought to have hearing losses under 5 years of age or at
5 years are given a Rubella screening test. which consists in searching for
Rubella anti-body in blood samples collected from a finger prick. The
main categories to be tested are children who have failed hearing screening
tests, i.e., those picked up by health visitors and referred to the doctor
who then confirms a possible hearing loss; those seen in welfare or toddler
clinics in whom a hearing loss is suspected including those with speech
problems; children born to mothers with a history of rubella or suspected
rubella in pregnancy even when no abnormality is found; those seen at
5 years who are referred to the otologist and a hearing defect confirmed.
It is said that perceptive deafness due to congenital rubella has been
under-estimated and this prospective survey should determine whether
the rubella immunisation programme is effective in the long term. This
survey will also provide a potential diagnostic service for other conditions
affecting the heart, eyes, growth, central nervous system, haemopoeitic
system, liver, lungs and bones, that might be due to congenital rubella.
There were 47 babies with a total of 57 abnormalities notified under
the national scheme for the registration of congenital abnormalities.
Welfare foods are distributed at all the 17 child health centres in the
Borough and the new vitamin drops supplied under the Welfare Food
Order of 1971, which came into operation on the 4th April 1971.
Several changes were made to the ante-natal, toddler and associated
clinics during the year following a review of these sessions Two antenatal
clinics were cancelled, 4 other ante-natal clinics were designated as
toddler/antc-naial clinics and one toddler clinic was cancelled. Two
ante-natal clinics were combined with a geriatric clinic and one additional
geriatric clinic commenced.