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The remaining fatal cases from infectious diseases were—
Diphtheria 7
Scarlet fever 3
Puerperal fever 2
Measles 2
There was an epidemic of scarlet fever in the autumn which necessitated closing the
Beehive schools, and the Gordon Club, which at that time was being used as a temporary
board school. I am of opinion that scarlet fever was spread by children who had had it
being sent back to school whilst they were still in an infectious condition; in these instances
the cases were probably slight and not recognized or notified by the parents.
Eighteen deaths from phthisis occurred, or at the rate of 1.00 per 1,000 per annum
of the population.
Bakehouses are in good sanitary condition with the exception of the one mentioned
in my last report, which is still impregnated with the effluvium from an adjoining stable.
Burial grounds are in a satisfactory condition from a sanitary point of view.
Slaughterhouses are in the same condition as last year, which was satisfactory, as
are also cowsheds.
Measles was, in October, added to the list of infectious diseases requiring notification.
The number of houses closed during the year was two,—in Cottage Row,High Street.
A Hospital for infectious diseases is being built, and will be available for use, I,
hope, in a short time.
I remain, gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
JAMES SHIMELD,
Medical Officer of Health,