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from Tuberculosis - although, as will be seen from the report of the
Chest Physician on page 52, this disease is still a danger and
preventive measures cannot be relaxed. Deaths from Bronchitis
increased in 1961. Bronchitis is exacerbated by smoke, both in the
form of pollution of the atmosphere and from inhalation of
cigarettes. Atmospheric pollution will be much reduced when the
provisions of the Clean Air Act have become effective.
I am glad to report that the number of deaths from road traffic
accidents was almost halved. There was a decrease in the number
of suicides. However, as the total numbers are small, I do not
consider that any significant statistical conclusions can be drawn
from these figures.
Infectious Disease
Salmonella Typihimurium
An outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium (an intestinal disease)
occured in the Wanstead area, centring on Our Lady of Lourdes
Roman Catholic School. The Disease was confirmed in five children
and one member of the school staff. Examination of contacts
of confirmed cases revealed three symptomless carriers. All
practitioners in the area were alerted and" a report sent to the
Director of the Enteric Reference Laboratory at Colindale.
Dysentery. At the beginning of the year there was an outbreak of
Dysentery at Dr. Barnardo's Homes, Woodford Bridge. This
accounts for the increase in cases over those in 1960. No serious
cases were reported.
Measles. This disease usually visits us in alternate years and, as
was to be expected, many cases were notified, all generally mild.
Poliomyelitis. No cases of Poliomyelitis were reported. Although
there have been pockets of disease in parts of England it would
appear that the intense drive to have persons under the age of 40
years immunised has become effective, the national incidence
having shown a marked decrease.
Although the incidence and severity of infectious disease is low
constant vigilance is necessary. Many doubtful cases and contacts
have been referred to the department for investigation. An everpresent
risk is the importation of smallpox usually from air travel.
Clean Air Act
The progress in the programme of Smoke Control Areas preceeded
as planned, Areas No. 1 and 2 coming into operation on
1st October. A very good relationship with the nublic has been
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