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Samples of the sweets, a powder known as "Gravy Thick"
which was used in the preparation of the midday meal consumed by
the deceased and other members of the family approximately twelve
hours before the boy was taken ill, as well as a " Cooling Powder "
which was administered by the mother during his illness, were
obtained and submitted for bacteriological and chemical examination
.
The report of the analysis of these articles, however, did not
reveal the presence of any pathogenic organisms, or of any injurious
substance in them.
The conclusions to be deduced from the bacteriological and
analytical examinations appear to show that the sweets could not be
incriminated as the possible causative agent of death.
The post-mortem examination showed patchy areas of injection
of the mucous membrane of the small and large intestines. No
ulceration or haemorrhages were present. The appearance and
distribution of the lesions were of a character more likely to be
produced by an intense infection rather than by any irritant poison.
The Coroner's Certificate stated that death was due to Toxaemia
consequent upon acute Gastro-Enteritis of an infective origin not
precisely ascertained.
Chemical and Bacteriological Examination of Food.
The chemical analysis of samples taken under the Food & Drugs
(Adulteration) Act, 1928, the various Food Regulations, and samples
of water from the Swimming Baths, are carried out at the laboratory
of Mr. Martin Priest, F.I.C., the Public Analyst, 4, Obelisk Parade,
Lewisham ; and the bacteriological examination of clinical material
(sputum, swabs, etc.), samples of water from the Public Swimming
Baths, milk and foodstuffs, at the laboratory of Dr. Bousfield, the
Council's Bacteriologist, 134, Denmark Hill, S.E.5.
Bacteriology.
The following is a summary of the Bacteriological Examinations
performed by Dr. G. Bousfield, during the year ended December 31st,
1932.
The number of specimens examined was 5,132. These were
composed as follows:-
Diphtheria swabs 2,533 Per cent. positive 11.4
Sputa for tubercle 2,467 „ „ 15.1
Bloods (Widal's Test) 13 „ „ 15.3
Milks, bacteriological for tubercle and
under Milk Order 75
Milk for Animal Test 1
Bath Waters 12
Ice Creams 6
Miscellaneous 25
Total 5,132