View report page

7
desiccated coconut. The risk of multiple cases occurring at the same
time is therefore very real and it was with some apprehension that
notification of the first case was received, especially as we were
in the throes of the diphtheria outbreak.
There were nine cases in all, due to the same strain of organism.
Eight of the cases occurred within a short time of each other and
appeared to be associated, but in spite of a vigorous search and
intensive sampling of the foods that might have been implicated, the
origin of the outbreak was, unfortunately, never discovered.
A detailed account of the outbreak will be found in the report.
Poliomye1itis
The scheme for vaccination against poliomyelitis was extended
this year to include everybody up to the age of 40. The response
to vaccination varied enormously with the age ranges, being very
disappointing in the 15 to 25 age group.
Only two cases were notified this year in children aged 4
and 9 years. Neither had been immunised but fortunately both
made a satisfactory recovery.
CLEAN AIR
The impetus given by the Council last year to the implementation
of the provisions of the Clean Air Act has now gathered
such momentum that there is every indication that the eight-year
programme will be on schedule.
CHIROPODY SERVICE
During the year the Minister of Health gave local health
authorities permission to establish chiropody services where
they did not exist, and where already in existence, to extend
them. Owing to the great foresight of the Walthamstow Council
before the appointed day we were fortunate to be one of the few
authorities where a chiropody service was in existence. With the
shortage of chiropodists there was a danger that the extension of
these facilities to other authorities would cause us to lose
some of our staff. Fortunately we have maintained, and even
increased, our establishment. An account appears in the report
of the re-organisation that was effected to attain this.
Once again I am indebted to the Chairman, Vice-Chairman,
members of the Committee, and all staff, for their co-operation
during the year.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
M. WATKINS
Medical Officer of Health.