View report page

6
The policy of using combined antigens only during the 4th and 1st
quarter of the year was continued, since this is considered to be the
most practical way of reducing the slight risk of provoking cases of
poliomyelitis.
Prevention of Whooping Cough.
Nearly every infant is protected against whooping cough as well as
diphtheria. Efforts are made to commence inoculations by the third
month as the disease is most dangerous in the first year of life. The
vaccine does not give complete protection but when the disease does
occur in an inoculated child, it is a mild illness.
Prevention of Smallpox.
The percentage of babies vaccinated in 1958 was 55.9% which is
lower than in the previous year (66.9%).
Prevention of Tetanus.
Active immunization is available for those who desire it.
Prevention of Tuberculosis.
Active immunization against tuberculosis with B.C.G. is offered
each year to children aged 13 years. The object is to give added
protection against the disease during the adolescent period when they
are particularly susceptible. Subsequently they develop the natural
immunity which results from the normal activities of adult life.
About 70% of the parents of eligible children take advantage of
this scheme.
Prevention of Poliomyelitis.
The scheme is administered on a Divisional basis and figures quoted
apply to the boroughs of Richmond and Barnes.
During the closing months of 1957 supplies of vaccine were very
limited and it was only possible to vaccinate 283 persons during
October, November, and December. On the 1st January, 1958, 4,183
applicants were awaiting vaccination and a further 263 had only
received one dose. Supplies of vaccine continued to be scanty during
the first quarter of 1958 until May, when the import of American and
Canadian Salk vaccine recommenced and the situation was greatly
improved. Arrangements were made for five sessions to be held each
week at the various clinics. Usually more than 120 appointments
were made for each session and in the vast majority of cases the scheme
worked smoothly and patients were kept waiting only a very few
minutes.