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merit bulk stores which is disposed of by the salvage section of the
•Ivlinistry of Food. In addition to this 11,399 lbs. and 1051 tins were
condemned following damage by enemy action. In August a small outbreak
of food poisoning was reported. The onset of symptoms occurred
3-4 hours after taking lunch in a factory canteen in 10 out of 152
persons who had partaken of the meal. The illness was sufficiently
acute in 2 cases to warrant admission to hospital but all made complete
recoveries. Investigation suggested that roast lamb was the source
of the trouble. Fingers, flies and filth are the main factors in the
contamination of food and of these the most important is probably
fingers: scrupulous cleanliness of the hands should be observed by all
persons engaged in the handling, preparation, cooking and serving of
food.
A consideration of this Report will show that the general
health of the inhabitants of the Borough has been naintained and even
improved as compared with previous war years. A large volume of work
has been carried out by the Department and my staff have given loyal
and generous service.
I.Iy thanks are due to the Chairmen and Llembers of the
Committees for their support and consideration and to my colleagues in
other Departments for their ready co-operation.
I remain,
Your obedient servant,
A. AND2RS0N,
Medical Officer of Health.
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