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TUBERCULOSIS
On 31st December 1957, there were on the register nine
hundred and sixty cases of Tuberculosis, of whom eight hundred
and forty six were Pulmonary and one hundred and fourteen nonpulmonary.
in 1957 there were five deaths from Pulmonary Tuberculosis
The death rate was 0.06 per thousand of population, the same as
in 1956. There was no death from non-pulmonary Tuberculosis.
For England and Wales the death rate for Pulmonary Tuberculosis
was 0.10 per thousand of population and for non-pulmonary
Tuberculosis 0.01 per thousand of population.
The number of new cases of Pulmonary Tuberculosis was
thirty two, compared with thirty four new cases in 1956. Until
1953 approximately seventy new cases were being notified annually.
There has been a sharp decline in infection since the introduction
o f new specific drugs and Improved surgical techniques. Residual
foci of infection still persist, particularly among the middle
aged and elderly and intensive search will be necessary to
eliminate the disease. Tuberculosis can be cured by modern
methods of treatment. The use of B. C. G. vaccine in adolescent
children gives a high measure of protection. Five hundred and
sixty two children received injections in 1957. The response
rate was 73 per cent.
Three new cases of non-pulmonary Tuberculosis were notified
in 1957, compared with one new case in 1956. in fections of glands
bones and Joints and serous membranes are caused by the
human or bovine types of the bacillus. in this Borough all milk
is designated or pasteurised.
The Tuberculosis Care Committee is making a valuable
contribution towards the well-being and reablement of patients.
Early diagnosis has made it possible for many patients to be
treated at home. Social and economic support for patients and
families is necessary. Additional nourishment, clothing and
bedding are provided. Grants are made towards occupational
therapy. Holidays are provided for children, mothers and
convalescent patients. The voluntary services of the members of
the Committee are greatly appreciated. The Hon. Secretary is
County Alderman Mrs. Margaret Walkden, J.P., 9, All Saints Road,
Sutton.
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The following table shows the new cases and deaths in age
groups-