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The work of the Sanitary Inspectorate has continued on the
same high level as in previous years.
In the field of infectious disease there was a major epidemic
of measles, fortunately with only one death. Poliomyelitis was of
decreasing incidence and residual paralysis; bacillary dysentery
made a re-appearance especially at day nurseries and reference is
made to a prophylactic trial. The incidence and fatality of tuberculosis
increased but the effect of the increasing use of heat-treated
milk is clearly demonstrated. Again, there was no death from
diphtheria for the fifth successive year but there still remains the
increasing apathy due to a decreased awareness on the part of
the public to the dangers of diphtheria.
In the field of health education, the question of cancer publicity
was fully explored and a leaflet has been issued in the early part
of 1952.
The personal health services provided through the
Walthamstow Health Area Sub-Committee of the County Health
Committee have continued and expanded. Health centre sites
were fixed ; the priority dental service was maintained; health
visitors attended rounds in the children's wards at Whipps Cross
Hospital. An analysis was made of the careers of nursery nurse
trainees after qualifying and reference is made to a "pilot"
nutritional survey amongst housewives.
The staff of the department have again worked loyally and
conscientiously and this Report would not have been possible
without their help.
Miss C. A. Lee, S.R.N., S.C.M., Superintendent of the District
Nurses' Home at "Carisbrooke" retired on the 31st March, 1951
after 16 years' faithful service to the former District Nursing
Association and since the appointed day to the County Council.
I cannot conclude this Report without renewed appreciation
of the help and consideration received from the members of the
Committees concerned and particularly from the Chairman,
Alderman Lady McEntee.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
A. T. W. POWELL,
Medical Officer of Health.