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7
Immunization.
The diphtheria immunization campaign has been continued as
in former years. The method of compiling statistics has been
carefully scrutinized and the figures submitted in Section F are
considered to be realistic and as accurate as it is possible for them
to be.
The fact that 69.9% of children under 5 years of age are immunized
is satisfactory when it is remembered that half the number
of infants born during the year do not become old enough for
immunization until the following year. In addition a small number
of parents refuse to have their children treated. Under the circumstances
I doubt whether the level of immunization can be raised
much in this age group, though every effort will be made to do so.
With 91.5% of school children immunized there is very good
protection indeed. The figure is almost certainly higher than this,
as there is always a number who attend private schools who are
immunized but for whom there are no records.
Immunization against whooping cough was commenced in October
for children under 5 years of age . It has been well received and
is becoming more and more popular. Not only is the vaccine now
in use much more effective than formerly but local and general
reactions are much less marked.
Vaccination against Smallpox is carried out at the local clinics
and by private doctors. Compared with other parts of the country
the recording of 68% Richmond babies protected in this way is
very satisfactory.
Water Supplies.
Drinking water is from local wells and from the Metropolitan
Water Board.
Action taken to ensure the purity of these supplies is set out in
the Appendix.
Water fit for human consumption is made available by piped
supply to every dwelling house in the Borough.