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The eighth case was probably not one of Plague, since the patient presented only
slight fever for two days and a small tender bubo under the jaw ; however, the
possibility of his having a mild attack could not be overlooked considering the ship's
history. He was therefore removed to hospital for observation.
Cases 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 were bubonic in type ; 6 and 7 were septicemic.
It is possible that cases 6 and 7 were infected directly from case 1.
The following precautions were taken :—
1. The sick and a suspect were removed to Denton Hospital.
2. The living quarters were fumigated with sulphur dioxide, to kill rats
and fleas therein, and washed down with disinfectant. The native crew bathed,
and all their effects put through the steam disinfector at Denton.
3. All passengers were under surveillance, as also any of the British crew
who left the ship, by notification to their place of destination.

4. The native crew was kept on board under daily observation.
5. The ship's cargo was discharged on the " quarantine " grounds under
precautions against infection of the workers and against transfer of rats in
the craft used.
6. All workers were under surveillance bv notification.
J
7* Certain portions of the cargo underwent storage as a precaution against
infection—skins, carpets, waste and raw silk, &c.
8. When empty, the holds, native quarters and fore peak were filled with
sulphur dioxide by means of the fumigating plant, and simultaneously the
galleys and food stores throughout the ship by means of sulphur burned
in them.
The arrival of this plague-infected ship emphasises the necessity of preserving a
sufficient and efficient staff of workers to deal with serious emergencies.
The s.s. " Matiana " arrived at Gravesend from Bombay on Monday, 13th August.
Nine cases of Bubonic Plague were declared to have occurred during the voyage. Of
the nine, six were buried at sea and three survivors were removed forthwith to
Denton Hospital.
A tenth case arose on the 14th August, the day after arrival, and was landed at
Denton Hospital. Death occurred on the 17th, and Dr. Betenson confirmed the
diagnosis of Plague by microscopic examination.
All cases occurred in the native crew, and all except one in the crew occupying the
forecastle. One native coal trimmer occupied quarters amidships.