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8
was seen and fully investigated by me and adequate provision
made for immediate isolation and effective treatment. It is evident
that the preventive measures initiated were responsible for confining
the outbreaks to the few cases recorded.
Some anxiety was occasioned in March by the pollution of the
water supply due to overflow of the river Lea contaminating the
pumping station and mains. Within a few hours of notification
all effective measures were taken to combat the danger and ensure
a safe drinking water. Thereafter, samples were submitted for
investigation from various parts of the borough, until all were
found satisfactory.
It will be seen from the statistics relating to the care of
premature infants that the attention given to children nursed at
home ensures survival at the end of one month in a large percentage
of cases. It is proposed to augment the facilities at present
available for the saving of these young lives.
In respect of the co-ordination of the nursing services, unfortunately
the dearth of health visitors precludes, at the moment,
any general measures envisaged by the Ministry to afford increased
opportunities for instruction and advice to mothers and children
in the homes.
The ambulance service, which is now an integral part of the
borough's activities, has proved a boon to all sections of the
community: it is anticipated that rapid extension, limited only
by difficulties of purchase and replacement, will be necessary to
meet the heavy demands on this service during the coming year.
Under the National Health Service Act, 1946, it is incumbent
on local health authorities to make provision for health services
covering a wide field. Proposals embodying the details for the
establishment of these services were submitted to the Minister at
the end of 1947, and their implementation will play no small part
in the comprehensive medical services forecast by new legislation.
I desire to express my gratitude to the Chairman and Members
of the Health Committee, and to the Chairmen and Members of
other Committees, for their assistance and support throughout
the year: also to my staff and colleagues who have contributed
so much to the efficiency of the department.
I have the honour to be, Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your Obedient Servant,
Malcolm Barker,
Medical Officer of Health.