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58
is at this stage that treatment is likely to prove effectual in
warding off serious complications or even in saving the life of
the sufferer. There is always some reason for a child being "off
colour," and when slight sore throat, hoarseness, croupy cough,
tenderness of neck glands, lassitude and pallor are present, either
singly or together, the possibility of infection by the diphtheria
germ must not be overlooked.
With such indications parents should obtain medical advice
at. once. Patches or a film of greyish deposit subsequently appear
on the tonsils or back of the throat and treatment then becomes
extremely urgent. Every hour's delay permits a greater quantity
of poison to be absorbed into the tissues of the body, and renders
the outlook more grave.
Of cases treated by means of diphtheria antitoxin (serum) it
has been found that on—
1st day of disease—3 deaths occur in every 100 cases.
2nd „ „ „ 12 „ „ „ „ „ „
3rd „ „ „ 21 „ „ „ „ „ „
4 th „ „ „ 28 „ „ „ „ „ „
5th „ „ „ 32 „ „ „ „ „ „
The unnecessary loss of child life consequent upon delay in
seeking medical advice and early admission to hospital is a matter
of grave concern to members of this Authority and their Medical
Officers, and in view of the facilities and accommodation available,
should not occur.
Efficient and expeditious arrangements for treatment exist
and are at the service of all inhabitants of the Borough. Expert
advice is available if required.
Delay is dangerous, often fatal! Parents! The responsibility
in the first instance is yours! Do not class as trivial the
danger signals already mentioned! Do not delay in obtaining
medical advice!
Examination for Diphtheria Germs.
The examination of swabs taken from the throat or nose of
suspected cases is part of the daily routine of the Public Health
Department. A negative result does not necessarily prove the