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13
1939—The Civil Defence Casualty Services—first-aid parties,
ambulances, and ten "ad hoc" first-aid posts were organised,
built and operated.
Every effort was made not to curtail health services and
activities.
There was a new low record in infant mortality (29).
The work done at the Maternity Hospital and Clinics was
almost as much as that in previous years in spite of four
months of war.
An investigation was carried out at the Maternity Hospital
into daily diets and the cause of mastitis.
1940—A high standard of health was recorded despite shelter life.
1941—Vital statistics were again favourable.
Two voluntary societies opened day nurseries.
1942—Diphtheria incidence was only l/20th of that for England
and Wales, and the Diphtheria death rate was only l/6th
of that for England and Wales.
A special clinic was opened for the treatment of Scabies.
A war-time day nursery was opened at St. Mary's Convent
and additional ante-natal services were provided.
The Education Committee's school meals services provided
some 4,000 meals per day from six kitchens.
1943—A second day nursery was opened at Higham Hill.
Special nutritional investigations were carried out at schools
in conjunction with the Ministry of Health and a special
investigation (in conjunction with the Essex County Council)
was carried out in regard to tuberculosis incidence at
schools.
The Education Committee decided that in future all school
staff should have an X-ray examination on appointment.
A full-time psychologist was appointed and a child guidance
service was commenced.
1944—The domestic help and municipal dental schemes were
commenced.
The infant mortality remained low at 37, while the illegitimate
rate was even lower at 33—a result of the special
measures for the care of infants and of premature; infants.
There was a new high record of confinements at the
Maternity Hospital (over 1,000 admissions) in spite of
rockets ' and ' flying bombs.'