VACCINATION PERFORMED

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 19988, 13 July 1939, Page 16

VACCINATION PERFORMED

PASSENGERS AND CREW VESSEL FROM TAHITI V SMALLPOX PRECAUTIONS . (Per Press Association.) - AUCKLAND, this day. To guard against the spread of the occurrence of smallpox from Tahiti, strict precautions were taken during the medical examination of the Union Steam Snip Company’s chartered motor-ship. Tolten, on her arrival at Auckland from Papeete yesterday morning. Practically all of the eight passengers and the 46 members of the crew were vaccinated, the work occupying about two and a half hours. An outbreak of smallpox, the firs', experienced at Tahiti, was discovered on the last day of the Totten’s stay at Papeete, and before the ship sailed for Auckland one death and 14 cases had been reported. The passengers and the ship’s complement appeared to realise the serious nature of the occurrence, and in most eases were glad to receive vaccination. Some were able to show recent certificates ol vaccination against smallpox, but otlereci to 'take part in the general measure. No Alcohol for 24 Hours Members of the crew nevertheless lamented the fact that they were not allowed to take any form of alcohol for 24 hours. On her arrival the Tolten anchored off Orakei and was bearded about 7 o’clock by the acting-port health officer, Dr. Watson. Dr. Smith, of the Health Department, and two other Health Department officials. The Customs launch reached the ship shortly afterwards, but returned to Auckland to wait until pratique was granted at 9.30. After receiving a clearance, the Tolten discharged a small quantity of explosives into a lighter before moving to Queen’s wharf about noon. The passengers were permitted to land, tut will be required to report daily for a week ito the Health Department. The crew will be examined daily on the ship.