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44
reference to which several representations have been made by
the Council.
Prevention of Infectious Disease.
In investigating the sanitary condition of bouses in which
cases of infectious disease have occurred, I have many times
discovered grave sanitary defects, and, the disease being directly
traceable to no other source, it can be reasonably inferred,
particularly in reference to Diphtheria, that a direct connection
exists between the defective sanitary arrangements and the
infection. This has been noticeable in the cases of children
stricken with Diphtheria, who have been ascertained to have a
weakness for playing with sanitary fittings, which were
subsequently found to be defective.
This being so, the extensive sanitary works carried out
during the year, and at present proceeding, should be of
permanent benefit in checking the spread of disease known to be
carried in sewer and drain air.
Sanitary Legislation, 1910.
The principal item needing attention under this heading is
The Housing (Inspection of District) Regulations 1910, issued by
the Local Government Board under the Housing and Town
Planning Act 1909. The regulations have been reported on in
detail jointly by your Medical Officer and Inspector, and after
being investigated by a sub-committee, have received the careful
consideration of the Council, with the result that the immediate
inspection of the first portion of the Council's district has been
authorised, and is being put in hand forthwith. The
comprehensive nature of the investigations to be made under these
regulations cannot fail to make the records of the inspections of
great value, as in course of time they will constitute the sanitary