Easing off in Levin.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 19 November 1918, Page 3

Easing off in Levin.

MORE WORKERS WANTIED. "" To-day's news of the epidemic in Levin and district appears to show that there is good ground for believing that it has reached its maximum. There has , been a definite decrease in the demand ; j for medicine at the local chemists', i j which is as good an indication as could t I be desiredi that the epidemic is loosing \ its grip. - if Apart from the mortal it y amongst " the Maoris at adjacent centres there have been no further deaths in this district, and the serious eases nearly aill show improvement. In conversation with the busiest and most souglit-for person in Levin jiwt now—Dr. Elizabeth Bryson—we learned that "in !her opinion the epidemic has crested the wave. Dr. Bryson says there are a very few cases of dangerous complications, although severe cases of tile ordinary typo are numerous enough. The trouble apears to be that patients get alarmed by the symptoms and comparatively harmless cases are urged' on the overworked < doctor's attention to t'he detriment of those who are in real danger. Dir. Bryson points out that the malady an its severe, but not serious form, ii« 'accompanied by persistent sleeplessness, severe headaches, and marked) depression of spirits. These are not symptoms which should caufe alarm, and victims must expect three or four days' of such illness. If after "that period, however, there is no sign of improvement it is time to ask the doctor's advice.

"The trouble is," said Dr. Bryjrx>n, "that every victim thinks he has got the pneumonic type, and I am receiving ceaseless demands for attention from people who are not seriously ill." .It must be obvious to all that no human being can work 24 hours a day every day, and every consideration should be extended to Dr. Bryson in the great ta."k she is facing so snlendr'dily. Another weakness of human nature is very much in evidence these times— the morbid desire to spread the news of another death. As already stated theve has been only one fatal termination to the malady in Levin.

We are pleased to report' a decided improvement in the condition of Mr Grant, of the Central [Development Farm, after a severe attack of the worst kindi. Mr Grant 'is an inmate of the temporary hospital. Miy Nicholson, of 'Gladstone road, is also improving, though: not yet out of danger.