Infant Welfare Work On Ocean Island

Since a special medical centre for infant welfare work was opened by the British Phosphate Commission on Ocean Island, Central Pacific, early in 1988, the infant mortality rate has dropped from 50 per cent, to 22 per cent. The rate is im proving still, as the dreaded infantile beri-beri disease is being con trolled.

Matron Myrtle Whelan, sister-in eharge of the centre, who has been responsible for much of the good work accomplished on Ocean Island, is shown in the accompanying photo graph with some of her young patients. The baby in her arms was given only three days to live, hut was saved by skilful nursing and diligent care.