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42
Diphtheria Swabs.—During the year, 654 swabbings from
throats and noses of persons suspected to be suffering from diphtheria
were bacteriologically examined, of which 40 gave positive results
and 614 negative results. At the request of the local branch of
the Invalid Children's Aid Association the Medical Officer of
Health took swabbings from the noses and throats of 14 children
who were about to be admitted to convalescent homes.
Diphtheria Anti-toxin.—In accordance with the Anti-toxin
Order of 1910, a supply of diphtheria anti-toxin is provided by
the Council and issued as required to medical practitioners applying
for it in cases of diphtheria or suspected cases of diphtheria amongst
the poorer inhabitants of the Borough. During the year, 12 bottles
of anti-toxin of 8,000 units each were supplied to medical practitioners,
most of which was used for prophylactic purposes.
Diphtheria Immunisation.—The active immunisation of
persons against diphtheria has been available for Hackney residents
since January, 1928. Weekly sessions are held at three clinics and
the Council pays the fees of 28 local medical practitioners who
administer immunising injections under the Council's scheme.
These practitioners immunised 149 children during the year.

It is estimated that by the end of the year 55.8 per cent. of the
children under school age and 50.8 per cent. of the children of school
age had been immunised against diphtheria.