SLEEPING SICKNESS

Greymouth Evening Star, 16 August 1933, Page 6

SLEEPING SICKNESS

DRASTIC PRECAUTIONS. [PEE PEESB ASSOCIATION.] AUCKLAND, August 15. In view of the outbreak of lethargic encephalitis, or sleepy sickness, in Hokianga, and Bay of Island counties, Mr J. A. Young, as Minister of Health, has vested the North Auckland Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Cook, with wide and drastic powers, provided for in Section 76 of the Health Act, 1920. The position is complicated by the fact that the Maori leader, Ratana, and a group of followers are in the Kaikohe district for the purpose of holding meetings. From such large gatherings, dangerous developments are possible, and therefore in view of the strong recommendation of his expert advisers, the Minister agreed to take the important step of using powers under the Act, to prevent tlje spread of disease. Section 76 of the Act, authorises the Medical Officer of Health, if authorised by the Ministei* to exercise special powers foi* dealing with the outbreak, and spread of any infectious disease, including the destruction of buildings, closing of places of amusement, hotel bars, churches, schools, and other institutions, and compulsory submission of persons to medical examination. A number of similar cases of encephalitis lethargica have been reported from Taranaki, but the situation is well under control. The Minister has given instructions that if Dr Cook finds it necessary to put into operation the more drastic powers conferred upon him, that he should do so, after conference with hospital, county and police authorities. Eight deaths from encephalitis lethargica occurred in New Zealand last year.