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TUBERCULOSIS.
During the year 91 new cases were added to the register of tuberculous
persons compared with 84 in 1955, and 74 in 1954.
Of the 91 additions, 50 were primary notifications and 41 were
transfered from other areas.
An analysis of the notifications received is given overleaf.

The figure of 8 deaths from all forms of tuberculosis represents a
death rate per 1,000 of population of 0.14, this being the same rate as
for 1955 when there were also 8 deaths. The rate for England and
Wales for 1956 was 0.12.
The number of deaths from tuberculosis has continued to fall over
a number of years, both locally and nationally, and it is gratifying to
note that the number of new notifications in the Country is showing a
decline. The Mass Radiography Units continue to carry out their
surveys and it is in this way that many new cases are detected.
The earlier detection of the disease makes it easier to deal with
and the chances of complete recovery are much greater. Modern methods
of treatment by thoracic surgery and the use of new drugs are proving
increasingly successful, and have brought about a dramatic decrease in
deaths from tuberculosis in recent years.
Another important measure aimed at combatting this disease is
rehousing and a degree of medical priority is given by the Council to
tuberculous patients with regard to rehousing.
Vaccination against tuberculosis with B.C.G. is offered to all children
between the ages of 13 and 14 years who attend the County
Council's schools. The scheme is operated through the County School
Health Service.
During 1956 it did not become necessary to use the powers given
under the Public Health (Prevention of Tuberculosis) Regulations 1925,
or Section 172 of the Public Health Act 1936. These powers prohibit
persons suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis from entering upon employment
involving the handling of milk, and the compulsory removal
and detention in hospital in certain circumstances, of persons suffering
from tuberculosis.
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