WORK OF THE BOARD.

It is pertinent to inquire what has been accomplished by the State Board. There is good reason to believe that progress has been made in improving the sanitary and hygienic condition of the people of the State, thereby lessening the mortality rate, and securing a better appreciation of the health law among the people.

The people know already that nothing is so costly as sickness. They will not be slow to seek and avail themselves of all possible means of prevention thereof. Statistics show conclusively that the deaths caused by preventible diseases are nearly double those from all others combined. Self-protection and economy suggests the remedy. This remedy the State Board has endeavored to give the people. Rules and regulations have been prepared and scattered over the State providing for restriction and prevention of contagious and dangerous diseases, which if carried into full force and effect will accomplish the desired end. It rests with the people to secure the benefits thereof. The State Board has no power to enfore its rules and regulations. During the past two years Small-pox, Scarlet Fever, and Diphtheria have prevailed over the State, and but for the restrictive measures provided by the State Board would have become epidemic with a fearful mortality. In every instance of an outbreak of these diseases where the rules and regulations of the State Board were enforced and carried out, the disease was easily controlled, and promptly exterminated, with small loss of life. The State Board have no hesitancy in asserting, and are firm in the conviction, that Scarlet Fever, that terrible scourge of children, more dangerous than Small-pox, can be completely controlled and prevented, in any community by a strict compliance with the rules provided therefor, but no more so, than other communicable diseases.

Experience will demonstrate the wisdom and value of these measures designed especially to diminish the loss of life, suffering, and consequent cost to the people.

The State Board is gratified with the progress made, and satisfied with the results so far attained.

VENTILATION,

BY

JUSTIN M. HULL, M. D.,

MEMBER OF THE

STATE BOARD OF HEALTH,

AND

CHAIRMAN OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON VENTILA

TION AND HEATING.