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INCIDENCE OF AND CONTROL OVER INFECTIOUS DISEASES
One thousand, two hundred and sixty eight cases of notifiable
diseases, other than Tuberculosis, were notified during 1961, compared
with three hundred and sixty seven cases in 1960 and one thousand, seven
hundred and thirty eight in 1959
Scarlet Fever Forty nine cases were notified in 1961 as against one
hundred and sixty six in 1960 The incidence was highest in the first and
second quarters of the year, there being seventeen cases in the first
quarter, nineteen in the second quarter, seven in the third quarter and six
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 Anatoxin The possibility 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. Diphtheria Immunisation is 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 - and this is desirable - 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.

In addition, one thousand eight hundred and eighty seven children
received reinforcing injections.
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