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89
Of the 157 deaths from diarrhoea, 141 occurred in infants under
two years of age.
DISINFECTION.—This has been carefully attended to in
all instances of infectious diseases, 361 houses were disinfected; the
infected rooms fumigated by sulphur, and subsequently the windows
kept open to expose the rooms freely to the oxydising influences
of the open air. The walls of the room, where necessary,
were stripped and otherwise cleansed.
At the disinfecting oven 3,338 articles were disinfected, and
the Sanitary Officer, Inspector Lear, reports that he has been able
to secure the removal of 259 of the infected sick to the Asylums,
and that he has generally experienced little difficulty in inducing
these persons to the removal.
Inspector Alexander reports that 1,148 premises were carefully
inspected, and in 1,137, nuisances dangerous to health were
found, and notices served requiring their abatement.
In his report an account is given in detail of the various works
that have been done to abate the nuisances; and it is there ev1denced
that much has been done in the year to render the dwellings more
suitable for health. Some of the alterations were structural, for
instance to remove damp, 100 roofs were repaired. Some alterations
were needed to carry away sewage products and for that purpose,
426 drains were repaired or replaced. Cesspools have mostly
been abolished but they are now and then still found ; only six
were discovered in the year. A great deal of attention has been
given for some years past to securing the inhabitants improved
closet accommodation, (i.e.) structures more fitted for the purpose,
and more cleanly, by provision of increased water supply. 576
closets were cleansed and repaired, and water supply restored, or
newly la1d on in 669 closets.
Additional care has been bestowed in endeavouring to prevent
sewage gases penetrating the basement rooms, and sleeping chambers,
hence in 309 premises, waste pipes were securely trapped, or
their connection with the drain cut off, rain pipes have also been
disconnected from drains in 426 premises to prevent sewer gas
entering bed rooms.