TIMARU’S TRIAL.

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 805, 21 January 1903, Page 2

TIMARU’S TRIAL.

SCARLET FEVER EPIDEMIC.

By Telegraph—Press Association, Timaru, last night. In consequence of the fever wards at the hospital being dismantled and undergoing alterations, the Hospital Board have sought to hire cottages to serve as a scarlet fever hospital, but have had great difficulty, owners decling to let the houses for such a purpose. One small cottage was obtained for two patients from hotels or houses. None are accepted from private homes. The Mayor suggested that the Timaru gaol, which is not much used, be utilised as a fever hospital, but this idea was not entertained. The chairman ol the Board disclaimed responsibility for tho treatment of epidemics, which must in every case over-tax ordinary accommodation or staff arrangement of hospitals, and said they were acting generously towards the Borough Council in doing what they were. The Board acknowledged the difficulties, but agreed to continue to do the boat they can. They pointed out that the resident surgeon’s objection to tents for scarlet fever patients was not borne out by a countermanding order to put patients into tents at Dunedin. Dr Galutes said that the Indian pattern of tent, with double-walls and roof, would do, but these are expensive.