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In the early part of the year Smallpox was brought into the country
from Pakistan. There were a number of suspected cases in the Borough,
all of which proved negative. During this period constant vigilance
was necessary.
Clean Air Act
Considerable strides forward in the elimination of domestic smoke
have been taken during the year.
In the light of Ministerial relaxation in procedure, the programme of
smoke control areas was re-examined and reduced from 10 years to
8 years with a completion date of October, 1967. A map of the
Borough indicating the areas in operation and others proposed is
included in this report.
A recurrence of "smog" during December served as a timely
reminder that atmospheric pollution is still with us, and as a spur to
our efforts towards clean air.
Care of the Elderly
Considerable progress was made in the sphere of Old Peoples
Welfare. During her year of office as Mayor, Councillor Mrs. S. Ashton
instituted a fund which enabled her to purchase a dual purpose van to
be used for extension of the Meals on Wheels service and for transport
of elderly or handicapped persons to clubs, entertainments, etc. The
meals service has now been expanded to provide meals regularly on
four days per week. A Christmas Draw in December, 1961 resulted
in a profit of almost £60. This money was placed in a Special Comforts
Fund and, during September eight old people, who would not otherwise
have had a holiday, were taken to Margate in the van and accommodated
in a guest house for a week, free of cost to themselves.
My thanks are due to the Public Health Inspectorate and the
Clerical Staff for their work throughout the year.
Finally I would record my appreciation of the support I have received
from the Chairman and Members of the Public Health Committee.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
FREDERICK G. BROWN, T.D., M B.,
B.Ch., D.P.H.
Medical Officer of Health.
20th August, 1963.
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