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of the increase belongs to Chest and Heart Diseases. Vitiated atmosphere
would naturally be expected to exert its influence on the breathing
apparatus, and impeded respiration throws a strain upon the heart that,
in the presence of organic lesions, it may not be able to withstand.
In the late Autumn the incidence of Diphtheria increased, but
hospital accommodation proved adequate to the needs of the outbreak.
The immunisation of susceptible persons against infectious diseases
seems the most probable method by which they—the infectious diseases—
may be controlled or eradicated. The Council has not yet expressed its
desire that the Schick method of immunising persons susceptible to
Diphtheria should be employed in this area.
It is gratifying to note that no death took place during the year
from Scarlet Fever. The last year in which so satisfactory a record
occurred was 1917.
There has been a declension in the number of births by 240, as compared
with last year, and a slight increase in the infant mortality rate.
The increased incidence of Encephalitis Lethargica is noteworthy.
In 1923, 4 cases were notified; in 1924, 31 cases (7 deaths). Unfortunately,
too little is known about its cause to suggest measures for its suppression.
There is a suspicion that Encephalitis Lethargica and Influenza have
some relation the one to the other.
The pollution of the tributaries of the Lee has received your special
consideration. The condition of the river is not yet satisfactory. It is
hoped that the offending parties will be obliged to amend their ways,
and that the river may yet come to be regarded as a place of beauty and
a source of pleasure.
The Health Department acknowledge with gratitude the consideration
they have at all times received from the Council.
I am, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
David B. Kirkhone.
POPULATION.
The Registrar-General estimates the population at the middle of
the year 1924 to be 153,100. The Treasurer estimates the population
at November, 1924, to be 156,000. The latter figure, as being probably
the more accurate, is used as the basis of calculation of the vital statistics.