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SECTION F.
Prevalence of, and Control over,
Infectious and other Diseases.
Diphtheria Immunisation.
As will be seen from the Table below, 445 children
were immunised compared with 401 in 1944.
The main effort has been directed towards getting
the pre-school age protected and 85% of these treated
were under 5 years of age.
At the lowest estimate 62% of this age group have
now been immunised and as few children are treated
before the age of one, the percentage immunised between
1 and 5 years is now about 80, which may be
regarded as satisfactory.
The parents of the children still unprotected are
mainly those who "don't believe in it" or the indifferent,
apathetic and lazy and it is doubtful whether propaganda
by means of posters, leaflets, wireless talks, etc., has
much effect on these who are probably most influenced
by personal contact.
There has been no change in the days and times
of immunisation clinics which are set out at the
beginning of this report.
Number of children immunised during the last 5
years:—
1941 1942 1943 1944 1945
Number treated 1834 762 408 401 445
Under 5 years 5—15 years
Estimated percentage of
child population immuni-
on 31st December, 1945: 62% 65%
20