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No mothers died in childbirth during 1963, and this gives a maternal
mortality rate per 1,000 total births of nil, as compared with 0.28 for
England and Wales.
The infantile mortality rate shows a decrease at 17.32 per 1,000
live births, as compared with 19.07 in 1962. Eight infants died under
the age of one year in 1963 out of 462 live births. On page 14 will
be found an analysis of the causes of death. The corresponding rate
for England and Wales is 21.10.
The incidence of infectious disease generally throughout 1963 has
been low. The year, however, can be described as a "measles year".
There was a very high incidence during the months of February, March
and April, there being 472 cases notified during the year. For the most
part, cases were relatively mild. No patient died from the disease,, only
four cases being removed to hospital for nursing.
Eight cases of scarlet fever and 7 cases of whooping cough were
notified. It is felt that the attention of parents should again be drawn
to the need for immunisation against whooping cough. The immunising
material used throughout the year against diphtheria, contained immunising
material against whooping cough and tetanus.
It is again pleasing to record that during the year no cases of
poliomyelitis occurred in the Borough. This is the fifth year in succession
in which we have been able to make this comment.
Smoke control areas under the Clean Air Act continue to be introduced
at approximately the rate of one new area per annum. During
1963 the third area, bounded by Woodcote Road, Sandy Lane South
and Stafford Road, was brought into operation on the 1st October.
The department was again fully deployed on the care of the aged
and chronic sick. Many lonely, sick and old persons were given home
help service, district nursing and meals on wheels, to ease the burden
of their lives and postpone the day when admission to hospital or old
people's homes should become necessary.
Once again we must record the appreciation of all for the very
considerable help given by the W.V.S. in this connection under the able
guidance of Mrs. O. L. Wiles.
In conclusion, it will be the earnest endeavour of all of us to
ensure that the excellent services, which have been built up in Beddington
and Wallington over the years, and for which the general public
have shown so much appreciation, will be continued under the new
administration, which comes into operation after the 31st March, 1965.
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