M 16--
As regards (b), the sick were originally tended at the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Kennedy Town. Later, when the numbers increased so rapidly, they were accommodated in Block A of the old Government Civil Hospital—as many as 328 being under treatment there at the same time. In all 1401 cases were admitted and 776 died, a case mortality of fifty-five per centum.
In regard to (c), free inoculation was given at all hospitals, public dispensaries and at centres staffed by the St. John Ambulance Association & Brigade. Over a quarter of a million inoculations were administered. Figures are not available as to the number of persons at risk. Of fifty-two cases known to have received anti-cholera inoculation twenty-five or forty-eight per centum died, whereas of 462 persons who had not received such protection as inoculation provides 306 or sixty-six per centum died.
As regards (d), regulations were made by the Governor-in-Council restricting the sale of certain foods and drinks.
Propaganda mentioned at (e) related to articles in the Press and in particular a pamphlet entitled "Precautions to be taken to avoid Cholera" which was distributed generally and which was printed in the English and Chinese Press.
The sanitary inspectorate were requested to exercise increased vigilance.
The sanitary staff is inadequate and its organisation has been the subject of considerable criticism for years past by those best qualified to speak. There is little wonder that the epidemic broke with such suddenness upon the Colony under the conditions prevailing. Reference will be made later in this Report to the possible influence of methods of nightsoil and refuse disposal in vogue on the incidence and spread of acute intestinal disease.
(c) Smallpox.
Preventive measures against smallpox included vaccination, 443,021 persons being vaccinated at Government hospitals, Chinese public dispensaries and at centres established by St. John Ambulance Association & Brigade. This voluntary organisation has rendered very valuable assistance for many years past and the general public owe it a deep debt of gratitude. Vaccination of infants within six weeks of birth or of arrival in the Colony is compulsory under the Vaccination Ordinance and the necessary notices are handed to parents and guardians of children attending at the Register Offices to register the birth. In the absence of vaccination certificates in respect of such infants, reminders are sent by post.