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PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF
INFECTIOUS AND OTHER DISEASES
Scarlet Fever
The incidence of Scarlet Fever increased in the district during
the year. The increased number of cases was due to a small
epidemic in May, June and July, 78 cases being notified during these
three months. The disease was mild and no deaths occurred.

Typhoid Fever
The carrier of typhoid organisms previously mentioned in last
year's report is employed as a lavatory attendant.
Dysentery
One case was notified, but the diagnosis was not confirmed by
bacteriological examination.
Diphtheria
26 cases were notified and one death occurred. The type of
disease was comparatively mild. The child who died was seen on
the third day of illness for the first time by the doctor.
Diphtheria Immunisation.
Details of the work done during 1939 are given in the following
table. It will be seen that efforts have been directed mainly towards
getting children of pre-school age protected ; moreover, the great
majority of school children treated were between five and six years
of age. The number immunised was less by 29 than last year's
figure. This is to be greatly regretted, but probably the war and
the consequent initial disturbance and evacuation were the reasons.
The prophylactic used for those under eight years was alum toxoid,
given in doses of 0.2 and 0.5 c.c. at one month's interval and in
older children 3 doses of T.A.F. at weekly intervals. Reactions
were few.
(Three children were protected by using T.A.M.).
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