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35
effort was made to control all known possible breeding grounds,
the trouble was particularly bad during the hot spell experienced
in August.
In order to secure the co-operation of the public, especially
as regards the supervision of water-butts, ornamental pools, etc.,
a special pamphlet dealing with this pest was distributed to the
residents in the affected areas.
Expert advice was sought from the Ministry of Health and
Colonel James, their Malaria and Tropical Diseases Expert,
kindly sent down his Assistant, Mr. P. G. Shute, F.E.S., to
investigate and advise. Mr. Shute visited the area in the month
of August and made a thorough investigation of likely breeding
grounds. The main breeding ground was found to be located
in the smaller of the two lagoons under the control of the Ham
River Grit Company.
Prior to Mr. Shute's visit, however, many breeding grounds,
including some at the Sewage Works, private houses and a
disused factory at Church Wharf, had been treated. In addition
the lagoon in question had also been kept under observation
and fished for larvae but found free until the month of August.
Immediate action was taken. The water in the lagoon was
treated with a larvicide, and the Company's attention drawn
to the nature of the material being tipped there and to the
necessity of keeping the lagoon at all times free from floating
debris.
A special report on this subject, incorporating the report
of Mr. P. G. Shute, was issued to the Council. I wish, however,
to express my appreciation for the very valuable assistance and
advice given by Mr. P. G. Shute.
4. Schools.
The general hygiene and sanitation of the schools throughout
the area is very good and is dealt with in my Report on the
School Medical Service on page 60, as also is any action,
necessary in relation to the health of the scholars and for
preventing the spread of infectious disease.
It was not found necessary to close any school, either
elementary or private, with a view to preventing the spread of
infectious disease.