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23
establishment of Public Baths and Washhouses in the
Parish, it would almost unanimously meet with the
support it merits.
Disinfection under Clauses of Sanitary Act of 1866.
In my Report for 1868, I complained that disinfection
of houses, clothing, bedding, &c. had not been
actively carried out in this Parish, and that owing to
the imperfect means of obtaining early information, a
judicious and prompt action could seldom be taken
to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. In 1869
I intimated to the Vestry, that the time had arrived
when increased facilities should be given for personal
ablutions and change of linen and clothing by establishing
a Public Bath and Laundry, to which should
be attached an efficient Disinfecting and Cleansing
Apparatus for those who have need of it. Since then,
a painful experience has shown the absolute need of
putting into force provisions in clauses relating to
disinfection in the Act of 1866.* No farther proof is
needed than a reference to what has happened within
the last 18 months. In the epidemic of Scarlet Fever
now prevailing 175 deaths have occurred in this
district: representing more than ten times the number
of cases of this disease. A single case becomes the focus
of the disease, spreading from house to house, not
among the poor particularly, but equally penetrating
the mansions of the rich, taking off not the sickly and
young offspring of delicate parents, but the finest
children in the best families, at the most interesting
period of their developement.
*Sec. 23. The Nuisance Authority in each district may provide a
proper place with all necessary apparatus and attendance, for the
disinfection of woollen articles, clothing and bedding, which have become
infected, and they may cause any article brought for disinfection to be
disinfected free of charge, if from poverty, or otherwise, the owner or
occupier in the opinion of the Nuisance Authority is unable to carry
out the requirements of this Section.