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Despite the comparatively low incidence of the disease many
cases were of extreme severity, and it was not an uncommon
occurrence to admit a patient in a grave condition who had been
suffering for some days without the serious nature of the malady
being recognised. This is more likely to occur when few cases
are coming under notice and the attention of the public is not
focussed on a prevailing epidemic.
The age incidence was as follows, viz.:—
Years 0-5 5-10 10-15 15 upwards.
70 70 24 27
Of the total cases receiving treatment the number of deaths
was 17, giving a mortality rate of 7.2 per cent. as compared with
3.3 per cent. for last year. Three cases upon admission were
found to be suffering from hemorrhagic diphtheria, a fatal form
of the disease. Tracheotomy was performed on 7 occasions.
It was necessary to give large amounts of Antitoxin in certain
cases and 26 patients received from 50,000 to 100,000 units. In
many instances in order to afford immediate benefit the administration
was carried out intravenously. A combination of Antistreptococcic
Serum and Diphtheria Antitoxin is administered to
those patients in whom septic conditions are pronounced and such
was given with considerable benefit in 24 cases.
Severe complications of recovery cases were as follows, viz.:—
Paralysis 9
Cardiac Vomiting 5
Otitis Media 2
Broncho-pneumonia 1
Myocarditis 5
Scarlet Fever.
The number of cases admitted during the year was 160 as
compared with 229 for 1930. Owing to lack of accommodation at
certain times it was impossible to accept for treatment every case
occurring in the borough. Where home conditions, however,
indicated possible further infection of persons in the house or
adjoining premises, every effort was made to provide a bed, and
other cases were admitted at the earliest moment.