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INCIDENCE OF AND CONTROL OVER INFECTIOUS DISEASES
Three hundred and sixty seven cases of notifiable diseases, other
than Tuberculosis, were notified during 1960, compared with one thousand,
seven hundred and thirty eight cases in 1959.
Scarlet Fever. One hundred and sixty six cases were notified in
1960, as against two hundred and ninety four in 1959. The incidence was
highest in the first and second quarters of the year, there being seventy
cases in the first quarter, fifty one in the second quarter, twenty three in
the third quarter, and twenty two in the fourth quarter.
The illness was generally mild and there were no deaths.
The present less exacting control of Scarlet Fever, with its lesser
interference with school attendance of cases and contacts, is probably
justified whilst the illness remains so mild, although hindering prevention
of spread.
Diphtheria, No case was notified during the year. The last case
in Sutton and Cheam occurred in 1951.
Diphtheria Antitoxin The oossibility of Diphtheria must always be
kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of infections of the throat. The
early injection of antitoxin is the only effective treatment of Diphtheria.
Swabs for diagnosis should be taken before any antibiotic is administered.
Any suspected cases should be admitted to isolation hospital at once for
diagnosis and treatment.
Diphtheria Immunisation. Outbreaks of Diphtheria occurred in several
areas of the Country during 1960, including the London area. Diphtheria
Immunisation is therefore still very necessary. Immunisation is safe,
simple and effective. Every child should be immunised before the age
of twelve months (and if triple antigen is used, immunisation should be
started as early as the third month), with reinforcing doses at appropriate
intervals thereafter. Immunisation is free of charge and can be arranged
through the family doctor or at Child Welfare Clinics.
During 1960, one thousand one hundred and fifty eight children
received a primary course of immunisation, as follows:-
Age: Under 1 1 2 3 4 5-9 10-14 Over 15 Total
Number Immunised: 930 70 23 10 12 105 6 2 1158
In addition, seven hundred and forty three children received
reinforcing injections.
The following table shows the immunisation state of the local child
population at the 31st December, 1960.
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