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The total number caught in the various Docks during 1917 is 44,417.
RAT MORTALITY.
The examination of rats found dead, and of rats at a centre where rat mortality
has been discovered, is of obvious importance. Such a centre appeared in December,
1916, in relation with a large office used by a number of clerks.
The cellar beneath, together with skirtings and cupboards, was searched because of
an offensive smell. Thirty-nine dead rats in all were found. Many of these were
examined, but no trace of Plague as a cause of the mortality discovered.
A group of rats appeared to have taken possession of the cellar as winter quarters,
finding ideal conditions in the presence of water, a heating apparatus, access to a
refectory on the premises and easy access to food in the adjoining warehouses. The
mortality was of short duration.
Such works were executed by the Port of London Authority as to permanently
sever any association of man and rodent at this office. No mortality was found in the
warehouses in the vicinity.
Premises in constant or daily habitation are ones to which the attention of your
Inspectors is especially directed, and rat-proofing is recommended where rats are found
to have established their runs in connection with them.
SMALL-POX.
A vessel arrived on the 10th April, when it was ascertained that a case of Small-pox
had been landed therefrom at Aden. Disinfection of infected quarters was carried out,
and all bedding and effects destroyed.
A vessel arrived on the 29th March, and it was reported that a case suspicious of
Small-pox had been landed therefrom at Delagoa Bay.
All necessary disinfection was carried out there.
These vessels were kept under observation while in the Port.
No case of Small-pox was brought into or arose within the Port Sanitary District.