ENG-1953 — Page 126

HONG KONG ANNUAL REPORT, 1953

similar circumstances in the New Territories, there was average monthly labour population of 595 and the total number of malaria cases treated at the dam camp was 1,096.

Rabies. The anti-rabies campaign was continued and 14,736 dogs were inoculated during the year with avianised Flury strain virus as a condition of licensing. A total of 280 unlicensed stray dogs were caught and destroyed.

Two human cases were recorded and on three occasions the infection was diagnosed in animals. This incidence is con- sidered not unsatisfactory, but stringent measures against the importation of dogs from the mainland and restrictions on the movement of dogs within the Colony were maintained. The arrangements for the protective inoculation of persons possibly exposed to the infection were modified, as a result of the occurrence of neuro-paralytic incidents following anti-rabic treatment. This treatment is now only given when it is con- sidered that the risk of infection is material.

Administration.

Responsibility for the administration of public health measures is divided between the Medical Department, the Dis- trict Administration New Territories, and the Urban Council.

Medical Department. This department is responsible for the provision of general curative and personal health services as well as malaria control and port health administration. Under the Director of Medical and Health Services there is a staff of 3,095 which includes 220 medical personnel, 10 dental personnel, 586 nursing personnel and medical technicians in proportion. It operates 11 hospitals with a total of 1,848 beds, 21 general dispensaries providing out-patient treatment, and various special clinics providing dental, ophthalmic, social hygiene, and other services. Maternal and Child Health clinics number 17, and there is a School Health Service which covers the needs of 57,000 school children.

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