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3
Diphtheria.
Of the 27 cases recorded, 3 only ended fatally. Every house in which a case
occurred was carefully inspected and wherever any insanitary condition existed
remedial measures were taken. Several specimens taken from the throats of the
patient were submitted to the Clinical Research Association for analysis. In many
instances the cases proved not to be Diphtheria, the specific organism not being
present. Adverting to my last annual report and in accordance with my recommendation
contained therein, the Council have supplied through myself, Anti-diphtheritic
serum to the Medical Practitioners in the District free of expense to all patients not in
a position to pay. This has been a preventative, and a means of diminishing the
death-rate from this disease.
Diarrhœa
This was the cause of 14 deaths all of which occurred in children under 5 years of
age. Particular attention was given to the cleansing and disinfection of the streets
and gullies, and also to the regular removal of house refuse.
Inquests.
There was an unusually large number of Inquests held during the year:—viz.
37. The findings of the Juries were as follows:—
1 Sucidical by taking laudanum.
2 Convulsions.
1 Drowned, (query by accident or purposely), child, 4 to 6 months of age.
1 Concussion from accidental fall.
1 Suicidal by taking carbolic acid whilst of unsound mind.
1 Rupture of aneurism of aorta.
1 Rupture of blood vessel on brain.
1 Accidentally fell down stairs.
1 Syncope from fatty degeneration of heart.
1 Obstructed respirations probably due from convulsions.
1 Fatty degeneration of internal organs.
1 Strangulation of the gut.
2 Apoplexy.
1 Asphyxia.
1 Congestion of the lungs.
1 Accidentally suffocated in bed.
1 Syncope from heart failure.
2 Accidentally killed by a horse.
1 Fracture of leg.
1 Rupture of heart.
1 Asphyxia from overlaying.
2 Suffocated accidentally.
1 Wilful murder against some person or persons unknown.
1 Syncope from fatty heart.
1 Accidentally run over by a cart.