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11
The schemes for protecting infants and children against Diph'
theria, Whooping Cough, Tetanus, Smallpox and Poliomyelitis, have
been actively pursued as in previous years, and every effort has been
made to obtain a high degree of immunity.
The percentage of children protected against Poliomyelitis was
brought to a very high level by carrying out the injection in the
schools. During the year a fourth 'booster' dose was offered to
children aged between 5 and 11 years and again the acceptance rate
was in the region of 100%.
Vaccination against Smallpox.
Late in the year Smallpox was imported into the country and this
led to a heavy demand for vaccination and re-vaccination in the early
part of 1962.
Much has been said concerning vaccination since then and I feel
that some remarks on this subject would be appropriate. The immunity
conferred by vaccination fades gradually with the passage of time.
In some individuals it appears to fade more rapidly and completely
than in others. If an individual is to be kept permanently immune
he would have to be re-vaccinated at least every three years. It is not
practical to immunize a population in this way.
An outbreak of Smallpox is controlled by vaccinating without
delay all possible contacts. The incubation period of the disease is 12
days. Primary vaccination leads to immunity in 10 days and so can
prevent an attack if given very early. Re-vaccination leads to immunity
in 5 days and so has a much greater chance of preventing the disease.
This is the most important argument in favour of vaccination of
infants; in addition there is an added risk with primary vaccination in
later life.
Certificates of Vaccination and Inoculation.
A considerable number of requests were received from residents
in the borough for a certificate of vaccination or inoculation to be
authenticated for the purpose of travel abroad. The signature of the
person issuing the certificate was verified in each case as that of a
registered medical practitioner practising in the Borough of Barnes
and the certificate was endorsed accordingly.
Requests were also received by the Medical Officer of Health for
a certificate to the effect that no recent cases of smallpox have occurred
in the borough. Such requests are made by persons travelling to the
United States of America who do not wish to be vaccinated.
Prevention of Tuberculosis.
B.C.G. inoculation is offered to all children who are in their
13th year. The object is to provide artificial immunity during the