Scarlet fever epidemic feared for Mildura in 1943

Originally published July 23, 1943

BELIEVING that there is every indication of an epidemic of scarlet fever being experienced in the Mildura district, the Finance Committee of the Mildura City Council instructed its Medical Officer of Health (Dr F. J. Jude) and its Health Inspector (Mr B. Pickford) to take every precaution to prevent the spread of the disease.

It was also decided to contact the committee of the Infectious Diseases Ward to ascertain whether, in the event of an epidemic the equipment at the ward was sufficient to deal with such an outbreak.

The Finance Committee’s decisions followed the receipt of a report from the Medical Officer of Health through the Health Inspector dealing with recent cases of scarlet fever.

Dr Jude’s report before council was as follows:

As the incidence of scarlet fever has increased in this district during the past two or three weeks, I consider it wise to place before you suggestions for endorsement an approval in an attempt to prevent this disease from reaching epidemic form.

As you are probably aware, there is at the present time an epidemic of scarlet fever in the metropolitan area, and latest reports indicate that it is spreading throughout the State.

It is possible that a number of carriers may be found and arrangements have been made with Mr Burt, Pathological Technician at the Base Hospital, to do the swabbing and this will be done at no cost to council.

My suggestions are as follow:

1. Swab all close contacts for carriers and, in the case of school contacts, swab children in same class.

2. If two or more children develop the disease in the same class, isolate the class and enforce strictly the isolation powers.

3. Isolate Carriers: Where living at home and suitable means of isolating can be carried out, isolate in the home. Where carriers are visitors at hotels and guest houses, isolate in hospital.

4. If incidence of the disease appears to be spreading by persons coming from Melbourne, swab all child visitors.

5. Co-operate with the shire in carrying out the above as it is considered in the interests of both municipalities to have an identical policy. Officer to assist when required in either area.

6. Give advice to public through Press if incidence increases.