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Considerable work on the prevention of poliomyelitis has been undertaken
in recent years in Australia, and the view there has been expressed
that it is highly probable, now that scientists are able to grow the poliomyelitis
virus in the laboratory, that a vaccine may be produced that will
confer a significant degree of immunity against the disease. Epidemiologists
have now to accept poliomyelitis as being an inescapable
risk to be faced by the growing individual. In the light of this, the
Australian work on prevention gives great hope for future protection
during the early susceptible years of life.
The Department continued to administer the swimming bath at
Beddington Orphanage. This provision by the Corporation was much
appreciated by residents of the Borough, but unfortunately, owing to
a very inclement season, the numbers of persons attending showed a
decrease.
The year 1951 was one in which the population of the Borough
enjoyed good health and were free from epidemic disease.
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 am,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant;
PATRICK J. O'CONNELL,
July, 1952. Medical Officer of Health.
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