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(b) Poliomyelitis.
Thirteen cases of poliomyelitis were confirmed, as compared with
eight in the previous year. During the latter part of July and early
August four members of the nursing staff of Wanstead Hospital contracted
the disease in a severe form. A note on this outbreak is given
in Section F of my report. The remaining cases were of a mild
nature and there was little or no residual disablement. The behaviour
of this disease appears to have changed during recent years.
Whereas, formerly, cases occurred sporadically and it was unusual to
establish a connection between any two cases, cases are now being
notified where direct contact either within the same family or
otherwise can be traced. Evidence has proved that Poliomyelitis is
often spread by the bowel, and the importance of hand washing after
using the lavatory and before handling food cannot be too strongly
emphasised.
(c) Tuberculosis.
52 new cases were reported, as compared with 51 during 1952.
There were 5 deaths compared with 10 in 1952.
(d) Scarlet Fever.
82 cases occurred, a decrease of 29 compared with the previous
year. All were mild.
(e) Measles and Whooping Cough.
These continue the commonest of the infectious diseases. Figures
were 677 and 173, these being almost identical with those notified in
1952. Infections were usually not severe and there were no deaths
from either disease.
Old People's Welfare.
The problem of the increasing number of aged people, more
especially of those who live alone, continues to grow. In my report
of two years ago I made reference to the work of the Old People's
Welfare Association. I would like to pay particular tribute to the
many voluntary workers who are visiting old people in their homes.
These visits are being made regularly to nearly 200 homes, and are
greatly appreciated by very many lonely people. Towards the end
of the year a scheme to provide chiropody treatment for persons of
pensionable age was approved and was commenced early in 1954.
I hope to report fully on this work next year.
I would express my thanks to the Senior Sanitary Inspector and
all members of the Public Health Department for their work throughout
the year.
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