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incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis, as measured by notifications,
showed only a slight increase in Tottenham over previous war years.
The number of deaths due to this disease was 83, as compared with
80 in 1942. The campaign for immunisation against diphtheria
continued with vigour throughout the year with particular concentration
on the pre-school age group. By a special resolution of
the Borough Council, and with the approval of the Ministry of
Health, Scabies became a compulsorily notifiable disease as from
1st December, 1943.
War-time Services in the Public Health Department.
The statistical picture of the effect of enemy action on the
lives and working conditions of the citizens of Tottenham cannot
yet be given. The Public Health Department, charged with the
added duties of organisation of the civil defence casualty services',
the repair of war damaged residential property, the care of persons
rendered homeless by enemy action and their rehousing or billeting,
including also the finding of accommodation for essential war workers,
has tackled many problems of social interest, the experience of
which should be of inestimable value in the furtherence of public
health in the days of peace. In the solution of these problems the
department recognises their great indebtedness to the good will of
the general public, to their patience and endurance in times of
great personal stress and difficulty. A warm tribute must also be
paid to the work of the Womens Voluntary Services and the joint
war organisation of the British Red Cross and St. John's, whose
voluntary services to the homeless and injured have contributed so
much to the smooth running of the services. The Sanitary
Inspectors, the rehousing and clerical staffs, have all rendered loyal
and efficient service, and in their difficult and exacting work have,
1 believe, enjoyed the full confidence of the Town Council and general
public alike.
School Medical Service.
A pre-war standard of completeness in the provision of medical
and dental services for children attending elementary and secondary
schools has been maintained. A notable increase in attendances
at all clinics in the Municipal Health Centres has been observed,
as compared with the previous year. The extension of the Government's
scheme for the supply of cod liver oil and orange juice to all
children under five years of age attending school was a noteworthy
addition to the functions of the school medical service. The small