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Gentlemen,
During the five weeks which have elapsed since the last returns were communicated
to you, sixty-eight births and sixty-two deaths have been registered ; a number greatly
in advance of the average, proving that this has been a very unhealthy season.
In Blackheath, Lewisham, and Penge the number of births and deaths have been
equal.
In Sydenham the births exceeded the deaths by ten.
Thirteen deaths have taken place from zymotic disease, viz., in
Blackheath—
March 2, Scarlatina, Montpelier Row.
„ 3, Scarlatina, Montpelier Row.
„ 2, Measles, Mill Cottages.
„ 21, Hooping cough, Spencer Place.
Lewisham—
Feb. 20, Measles, Greenaway Place.
„ 24, Fever, Southend.
,, 22, Hooping cough, Rushey Green.
„ 24, Hooping cough, Rushey Green.
March 6, Measles, Stratford Place.
,, 10, Fever, Hanover Street.
„ 19, Measles, Hope Cottages.
„ 21, Fever, Southend.
Sydenham—
Feb. 19, Scarlet fever, Forest Hill.
Measles had been very prevalent in Lewisham, and still continues endemic in a small
degree at the North Surrey School.
Scarlet fever is also prevalent at Blackheath. Hooping cough is more or less prevalent
throughout the district.
Smallpox has been a little upon the increase. One case has occurred in Loat's Pits,
and several cases have occurred in Bell Green, Willow Road, and Russell Street, upon
which localities I have frequently reported to you, and which—more than ever—demand
your attention.
Fever still continues at Southend. One whole family, living over a stable opposite
the Tiger's Head, have been afflicted by it, and have been removed, as the loft is unfit
for human habitation.
The improvements which took place some time back in Loat's Pits have told very
materially in favour of the health of the locality. The Medical Officer of the District
informs me, as the result of his experience, that prior to the improvement in drainage
and water supply, smallpox would certainly have spread amongst the inhabitants.
The health oi the inhabitants of Sandwell Place, I am also informed, has visibly
improved since the filthy cesspools have been emptied, and drainage secured.
A drain opening into the ditch at Anerley, from two houses on the crest of the hill,
still gives forth a poisonous smell. 1 have before brought this under your notice.
Montpelier Row, and Paragon Mews, still require proper drainage. As abovementioned,
two deaths have taken place from scarlet fever, to be attributed to the above
cause.