THE BURNHAM CAMP.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 60, Issue 35, 21 November 1939, Page 7

THE BURNHAM CAMP.

FEWER CASES OF INFLUENZA. tCARE OF CONVALESCENTS. (Per Press Association). CHRISTCHURCH, November 20. According to official 'figures announced by the military authorities today, it will not be long before the all clear can be sounded as far as influenza in the Burnham military camp is concerned. While, a week ago, the usual number of men reporting sick each day in the camp 'w;as invariably more than 100, only 2d reported sick yesterday and 56 to-day. Three men were sent to camp hospital yesterday and four to-day, making the total in the camp hospital 29. Only one man was evacuated to a, civilian hospital yesterday and none to-day. The number in civilian hospitals has now fallen to 130, with a. further reduction expected to-day.

'Special attention is being given to meai convalescing from influenza,. It was explained that patients are sent when necessary to the Christchurch Hospital, and then removed to Bottle Lake for convalescence. Those with homes or friends in Christchurch are given leave, but those whose' homes are distant remain at Bottle Lake until fit to return to duty.

The conditions at Bottle Lake avo said to he particularly good. The Red Cross lias taken the hospital under its wing, that section opgnod for soldier patients being affected by members of the Volunteer Aid Detachment. Comforts have also been provided.

The Red Cross lias also taken six convalescent patients off the hands of the Army Department. These men have been billeted out for five days at big homes in the country. They are being well cared for and will return to camp fit and well. Special arrangements are being, made. for patients whose convalescence is more protracted. Accommodation has now boon arranged at Hanmer Springs, where 25 beds are available at the Queen Mary Hospital. A further 25 beds should be available shortly, and, if necessary, this accommodation will be increased to 150 beds.

Hanmer is being reserved for patients whose convalescence requires medical care- for .a fortnight or more.