View report page

242
Shortly after this case was reported (at end of July)
a second case of illness was brought to the knowledge
of the Department, which the medical attendant suspected
to be typhus fever. A consultation took place
and the existence of that disease was negatived, while
a post mortem examination, together with a consideration
of the facts of the illness gathered after death,
led to a final diagnosis (chiefly by exclusion) of
death from ptomaine poisoning. At the inquest the
finding was to that effect.
As regards the Metropolis as a whole, the disease
still continues to occur in isolated cases. In 1890, 35
cases were reported, and in 1897 only 4. The recent
outbreaks have not been satisfactorily traced to
previous centres of infection, although such continue
to persist in extra-metropolitan areas.
Erysipelas.
Paddington.
London.
Cases reported, 1899
146
5,615
Annual average number, 1890-98
141
6,411
Case-rate, 1899
113
1.23
It is very difficult to determine the value to be
attached to notification of this disease, if it can always
be so termed. The cases reported last year (146)
constituted the second largest number for any year,
the total for 1893 (242) being the only one in excess.
In North Paddington 125 cases were reported last
year, 3 more than the average. The maximum total