M 93

(2) Faeces. Two hundred and fourteen samples of faeces were examined for helminths and protozoa. The results are noteworthy in one instance only, i.e. the complete absence of positive findings of E. histolytica, in either vegetative or cystic form. While the figures are small nevertheless they are significant and are rather difficult to explain. Even if one accepts the hypothesis (for the sake of argument, only) that natural infection is insignificant in the Colony, the question still remains, why is there not a higher rate of infection from the carriers which surround us? A general protozoal survey on a fairly large scale is needed to afford a basis for any conclusions.

B. SEROLOGY.

(1) Serological reaction for Syphilis.--Four thousand two hundred and sixty-six sera were subjected to the Wassermann reaction. This number is almost double the total for 1930, due to the establishment of Venereal Disease Clinics in charge of a specialist officer. These figures are steadily growing and this work is now forming a much more important portion of the activities of the Institute than it has done in the past.

EXAMINATION OF BLOOD SERA FOR SYPHILIS.

EUROPEAN INDIAN CHINESE Total M. F. M. F. M. F. Strong positive. 33 3 42 1 4 1 11 2 Positive 15 21 148 1,156 431 108 61 73 1,666 Weak positive... 187 255 Doubtful ................ 12 2 44 3 145 114 320 Negative 232 21 166 906 505 1,938 Grand total... 296 28 284 16 2,458 1,184 4,266

(2) Agglutination Tests.-During the writer's visit to the Medical Research Institute of Kuala Lumpur he obtained through the courtesy of Dr. Kingsbury, Director of the Institute and Dr. Martin, Bacteriologist, standard cultures of B. typhosus, B. paratyphosus A. & B. and B. aertrycke (Schutze) with a view to utilizing these for the performance of qualitative receptor analysis according to Felix. A beginning was made towards the end of the year on preparation of the necessary emulsions of the appropriate and H antigens together with specific antisera. We have already attained a satisfactory measure of success and intend to utilize this method as a routine from the beginning of the coming year.

Share This Page