PUBLIC HEALTH.

Taranaki Daily News, 8 April 1916, Page 3

PUBLIC HEALTH.

CAMPAIGN IN NEW PLYMOUTH. SANITARY INSPECTOR'S REPORT. Reporting to the Borough Council, the sanitary inspector (Mr. R. Day) says:— In view of the threatened outbreak of diphtheria and. infantile paralysis, a vigorous disinfecting campaign has been carried out. In addition to the cleansing of private premises, the theatres, public halls, day and Sunday schools, the Town Hall and Public Library have been thoroughly fumigated. In order not to unduly dislocate , business, some of Mis was carried out ait night. The side channels in all parts of the town have been washed down twice weekly a nd disinfected. In my opinion, these precautions were taken too late, and it would be ■well in future years to have the town clean and take extra measures, before the hot weather comes on, and thus "lock the stable door before the horse is stolen," then New Plymouth could bS free of epidemics. Matters are well in hand for the commencement of the regular dust service -on May 1. The contract for the dray had been let and Che new pump is now in use. It only remains now for residents to provide themselves with tins. The careless handling of foodstuffs has occupied my attention during the month. I circularised SO tradespeople, warning them that sufficient care was not exercised in the handling of milk, meat, fruit, honey and the like. Buildings, drains and plumbing have been examined and passed where found satisfactory During the month Dr. S. Smith, D.H.6., visited the town, and I accompanied him in the course of 'his inspection of a large number of premises. Minor defects that were discovered are being rectified.