MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2490, 1 May 1909, Page 5

MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH.

A VISIT TO LEPROSY PATIENTS.

[Per Press Association.]

CHRISTCHURCH, April 30. The Hon. D. Buddo, Minister oi Public Health, accompanied by Drs. Finch and Upham, visited Quail Island to-day in order -to see what was being done for the leper patients. At present there are two on the island, a European and a Maori. There were three, but recently one was discharged. The two at present on the island have had severe attacks of the disease, hut are now very much recovered. The European’s was- a very severe case.'and the Nastin treatment has been used, and it is reported with good results, the patient himself stating that he had greatly benefited by the treatment. The Minister found that the patients were well accommodated in small shelters in a well-shaded spot, and each had an apartment for himso’f. They expressed them solves well pleased with their treatment and hopeful hs. to the future. Mr. Buddo informed the newspaper representatives that he wag of opinion that the best possible, was being done for those who deserved a great deal of public sympathy. In the evening the Minister piosentecl certificates gained by those attending ■the St. John .'Ambulance tirst-aid c:asAes In the course of a brier speech, he " eulogised the Association’s work, and urged them to extend their operations to 'C-ouniry districts where, they would receive good Support.: It was •stated that of the 800 ,who .attended the Association’s lectures last year 400 gained certificates.