Poliomyelitis

This infectious disease, involving especially the tissues of the central nervous system, presents a case for the most skilled and knowledgeable medical care. The risks associated with the condi-
tion, both immediate and remote, depend on which portion of the spinal cord is affected and also on the availability of adequate remedial aids. Opinion is still divided as to the best measures to be adopted in prevention, but the following precautions are advised to be taken by parents and children should the disease appear in their district :
Do not share a towel, toothbrush, or nailbrush with others.
When a handkerchief is soiled put it in water until it can be boiled (or, better still, use paper handkerchiefs and burn them when soiled).
Most important; wash the hands thoroughly before eating or handling food—and after using the lavatory. Keep finger-nails short and clean.
If in close contact with a new case of poliomyelitis, for three weeks afterwards keep at arm's length from other people; if possible sleep in a separate bed or, better still, in a separate room; avoid crowds and unnecessary travel; live in the fresh air as much as possible. See that children do not play with the children of other families. Avoid swimming baths, paddling pools, and crowds. If unwell rest and call the doctor.
In addition to carrying out these helpful injunctions issued by the council of the National Fund for Poliomyelitis Research it would be wise to give CAUSTICUM 30, three doses during a 24 hour period, to contacts as a preventive. This might well be followed three weeks later by three doses of LATHYRUS 30 given in the same way. This latter remedy has proved of value also in the treatment of this complaint.