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ditions. There are many instances of these mothers having
their babies at home, because of shortage of maternity beds,
under conditions of overcrowding which would once have
been considered intolerable. The need for houses is extremely
urgent, although the Housing Committee's programme of
building is well under way and houses are becoming available
in increasing numbers.
Diphtheria Immunisation
Responsibility for carrying out diphtheria immunisation
passed to the Middlesex County Council on the 5th July,
1948, in accordance with the provisions of the National Health
Service Act. By arrangement with the Area Medical Officer
of Health, this Authority's immunisation clinics were continued
until the end of the year when all arrangements for
diphtheria immunisation were taken over by the Area Medical
Officer.
Whooping Cough Immunisation
In February, 1948, the Public Health Committee decided
with the consent of the Minister of Health to undertake the
immunisation of children against whooping cough. This was
carried out in conjunction with the diphtheria immunisation
clinic and in many cases by use of a combined vaccine. This
service was proving popular with the public and 348 children
had completed a course of immunisation by the end of the
vear when the service was passed over with the diphtheria
immunisation to the County Council, the Area Medical Officer
having agreed to carry on with the whooping cough immunisation.
Scabies Clinic
The number of cases of scabies referred to the department
declined to such an extent that the Public Health Committee
were able to dispense with the clinic. Arrangements
have, however, been made for treating verminous cases,
should the need arise.
Water Analysis
1. The Bedfont and Feltham Wards of the District are
supplied by the South West Suburban Water Co. and the
Hanworth Ward by the Metropolitan Water Board. The