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COUNTY BOROUGH OF EAST HAM.
Public Health Department,
Town Hall Annexe, E.6.
May, 1945.
To The Worshipful the Mayor, the Aldermen and Councillors
of the County Borough of East Ham,
Mr, Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have the honour to submit my annual report as Medical Officer of
Health and School Medical Officer for the year 1942,
In accordance with the direction of the Ministry of Health and
Board of Education, the report is again presented in an abbreviated
form.
Vital statistics indicate a higher birth rate (17.4), a lower death
rate (14.09), and a larger population for 1941,
It will be seen that the health of the Borough has been generally
maintained, although the annual rates in respect of maternal mortality,
and infant mortality especially during the first month of life,shew an
increase in comparison with recent years.
The number of stillbirths Is considerably in excess of the previous
two years, but this is accounted for partly by the lack of statistical
returns in respect of mothers who made their own arrangements for
evacuation during those periods. The percentage of stillbirths,however,
is higher than for many years, and there is no doubt that the effects
of war-time conditions are largely responsible.
During the year, a mild epidemic of measles occurred, and the cases
of scarlet fever were more numerous, otherwise the notifications of
infectious disease remained at the same level as in previous years.
There were no cases of typhoid or paratyphoid fever.
The demand by mothers engaged in industry for war-time nursery
accommodation for their children, has necessitated further provision.
The nursery at School Road is now available, making three in tho
Borough, and It Is proposed to erect two others in the immediate
future, subject to the Ministry's sanction,
I am pleased to report that the net hospital and treatment block
at Harts Sanatorium was opened for tho use of patients In October last,
and the facilities permit of the most modern and scientific treatment.
The new Cleansing Baths for scabies and similar complaints situated
at Durban House, Katherine Road, serve tho needs of the Borough in
this respect, and afford opportunities for treatment greater than is
possible in the home.
The return of many mothers and children from evacuation has resulted
in the full operation of all Services and Clinic attendances
approximating a pre-war basis: much benefit is being derived.
The M,D,Occupation Centre at the Labour Hall, Katherine Road, and
the completion of the Ockendon Colony, has been of immense advantage
to the Council in the care and training of persons coming within this
category.
My thanks are due to the Chairman, Councillor Elson,J,P. for his
help and support on very many occasions,also to the Chairmon and
members of the other Committees with which I am associated, and to my
colleagues and members of the staff who have so greatly contributed
to the efficient organisation and maintenance of the Public Health,
School Medical,. Hospital, and Casualties Services,
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
M. BARKER,
Medical Officer of Health,