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37
Smallpoxu
There were no cases recorded in Kingston during 1957 but
the disease is still very prevalent in many parts of the world
and constant vigilance is necessary,Particular surveillance
has to be maintained over persons arriving from abroad
particularly when they have been contacts of cases or suspected
cases.
During the summer a diagnosis of smallpox was made in an
unvaccinated child in London. Investigation revealed a chain
of events which in all probability started with the arrival in
this country of a traveller from West Africa. All Medical
Officers of Health were alerted and the necessary measures in
respect of possible contacts in Kingston were taken.
The majority of countries now insist upon an International
Certificate of Vaccination being produced before travellers are
allowed to land. In this connection, a large number of certificates
issued by Kingston doctors are officially authenticated
in the Public Health Department each year in accordance with
regulations.
Vaccination is voluntary and every effort is made to maintain
a high level of immunity to smallpox in the population by
vaccinating the infants during their early months. This is
carried out by General Practitioners and at the Surrey County
Council clinics. Vaccination and re-vaccination is available
free for persons of all ages. At present some 51% of Kingston
babies are vaccinated during their first year and there is
every need to raise this figure to at least 75%
Scarlet Fever.
Thirteen cases were notified during 1957 10 of which
were of school age. The cases were mild and were all nursed
at home. There were no deaths.
Scarlet Fever is a streptococcal infection and is therefore
always viewed as potentially dangerous. Modern drugs
however prove to be a good weapon and the illness now usually
takes a mild form.
Diphtheria.
For the tenth year in succession no cases of diphtheria
occurred in Kingston. An intensive campaign is carried out
to immunise the school and pre-school population against this
disease and this is done under the direction of the Medical
Officer of Health at the Surrey County Council clinics and
by the General Medical Practitioners. Freedom from diphtheria
can create a complacency resulting in apathy towards immunisation,
which is the main protection against it.
The method employed during 1957 was to provide a combined
immunisation process against diphtheria and whooping cough
carried out in 3 injections at monthly intervals. Single
injection "Boosters" are given within a period of 5 years
after the primary inoculation.
During 1957, 3,705 Kingston children were immunised for
the first time or received reinforcing "Booster" injections,
some 600 more than during 1956. A figure known as the
immunity index, which is shown a® a percentage, is computed
each year. This relates to the proportion of the child