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(f) Treatment of Scabies.
A report on the treatment of scabies is given in Section
F of this Report, Arrangements have been in existence for
the treatment of scabies at Cleansing Centres for children
trader five, together with other age groups, since January,
1942.
(g) Convalescent Treatment.
A scheme operated whereby convalescent treatment was
provided for children under five years of age, subject to
medical recommendation. All cases were referred to the
Maternity and Child Welfare Sub-Committee who accepted
financial responsibility with provision for parental contribution
in certain cases.
During the period 1st. January to 4th. July, 1948, one
case was dealt with, but several cases were sent to Convalescent
Homes in preceding years.
(h) Prevention of the spread of Infectious Diseases.
Maternity and Child Welfare Section.
(i) Diphtheria Immunisation.
The policy with regard to active immunisation was to have
as many children immunised before the first birthday as possible;
some time after the sixth month, probably about the eighth month,
was the period of choice. The extent of the work accomplished
is shown in a table in Section F (Infectious Disease).
(ii) Vaccination.
Prior to 5th. July, 1948, compulsory vaccination of infants,
by the age of six months, was in operation, but there was a
"conscientious objection" clause in operation, very largely
used, whereby parents, by declaration before a Justice of the
Peace, could state a conscientious objection to the procedure
and so avoid it.
Upon the coming into force of the National Health Service
Act, 1946, vaccination of infants became a voluntary procedure.
Under the old regime the work was carried out by the
Vaccination Officer and the Public Vaccinator who were Officers
of the Surrey County Council.
Now, vaccination is made available at the Clinics and can
be clone by families' medical practitioners.