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12
Late in the year a case of smallpox was imported into the country
and since then a great deal of vaccination against the disease has been
carried out.
About 45% of our babies are vaccinated which is higher than in
many parts of the country, but in my opinion, is not high enough.
The protection afforded by vaccination fades gradually and an
individual will remain immune to the disease only if re-vaccinated at
least every three years. On the other hand, successful re-vaccination
produces immunity in 5 days whereas primary vaccination takes 10
days to do the same. In the presence of smallpox, re-vaccination offers
a greater chance of preventing the disease and this is an important
argument in favour of the vaccination of infants. Furthermore, there
is an added risk when primary vaccination takes place in later life.
The risk in infancy is extremely small and there are good reasons
for continuing to recommend vaccination in early life (before age 5)
and re'vaccination at school entry.
Tuberculosis.
As in previous years all children aged 13 years were offered B.C.G.
vaccination. The object is to provide artificial immunity to the disease
during the adolescent period when children are susceptible and can
be seriously affected.
Mass Radiography Service.
The Regional Hospital Board set up a Mobile X-Ray Unit at the
Bus Station behind the Odeon Cinema on every Thursday from 5.30
to 6.30 p.m.
The Unit is primarily for the conveniece of the local general
practitioners who can refer their patients without any prior appointment,
and who receive a written report within two or three days of
the examination.
The service is much appreciated by the doctors, and is also a convenience
to the patients who are saved both travelling and waiting
time.
Prospective employees of the Council who are unable to provide
proof of recent chest X-Ray are referred, and the reports are of
considerable assistance in enabling a decision to be made as to whether
or not they are suitable for inclusion in the Superannuation or Sick
Pay Schemes.
The Unit is also available for use by the general public.