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168
difficult,, as a consumptive patient should as a matter of course have one
room entirely to himself and this we are very rarely able to arrange.
As mentioned in previous reports the weakness of the whole scheme
for combating tuberculosis, lies in the fact that there is practically no
provision outside the Infirmaries for advanced and dying cases just when
they are in the most infectious stage, and until this is provided we have
not got to the root of the matter by checking the infection at its source.
The tuberculous scheme is working well all through the Borough,
and no case occurs which does not come under the direct supervision of
the dispensary as far as the home is concerned, although the patient may
not personally attend the Dispensary.
Sputum bottles are still distributed free of cost to the patients, and
the dispensary has several beds which are lent to patients where their
sleeping accomodation is insufficient.
Tuberculin is used to a considerable extent in suitable cases and the
results obtained have been on the whole excellent both in early lung and
glandular cases which have been able to undergo treatment while still
attending to their occupation.
There has been no change in the staff of the dispensary and during
the past year they have worked diligently and conscientiously and thanks
are due to them for the efficient way in which the work has been done
especially as it is of a depressing nature and not without risk. Acknowledgment
is also due to the members of the Public Health Department
for their ready co-operation.
It is hoped that the coming year will again show a diminution in the
disease and that the work of the dispensary will gradually lessen the
amount of Tuberculosis in the Borough.
I have pleasure in appending a number of tables which epitomise the
work accomplished in the year.
I am, Sir and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
HORACE WILSON,
Tuberculosis Officer.