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One death associated with childbirth took place during the year.
This, the first puerperal death recorded in this Borough for many
years, occurred in spite of adequate medical and nursing care being
given the patient, both before and after childbirth.
Throughout the year, the Government's policy for the increase of
diphtheria immunisation amongst children of all ages, but especially
those below the age of 5 years, was pursued vigorously in the Borough
Children were immunised by the Medical Officer of Health at Infant
Welfare Centres, in the schools, both private, elementary and
secondary, and at a clinic held weekly at the Town Hall.
On the 14th November, the Minister of Health found it necessary
to introduce the Scabies Order, to deal with a marked increase in
the disease amongst war-workers and troops throughout the country.
In this district, fortunately, the incidence of this disease, as well as
of the other contagious diseases, has been extremely low. The Council
considered the advisability of making further provision for treatment
of these conditions, but at the close of the year, the incidence having
been so small, no new scheme was introduced.
In reviewing health conditions generally, the Corporation can
congratulate themselves on having completed another war year
without any serious epidemic and with the general health of the
community at an extremely high level.
In conclusion, I wish to place on record my appreciation of the
loyal service and valuable assistance I have received from all the
members of my staff throughout the year.
I have the honour to be,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant.
PATRICK J. O'CONNELL.
Medical Officer of Health
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