Measles Epidemic In

Cook Islands

DESPITE the precautions and vigilance of the medical authority, three deaths have occurred among the native population since the outbreak of measles in Rarotonga. It is not difficult to imagine the decimation of some Island populations by this disease in the bad old days. The native cure for fever of any sort is to bathe in the nearest stream, or in the sea, which naturally is fatal. The epidemic is now out of control—and it is hoped that the tragic results of native disregard of sensible instructions will serve to bring home the seriousness of measles in a native

community.

Mr. J. A. Taylor, Headmaster of the Araura School, at Aitutaki, Cook Islands, returned recently to New Zealand with his family on account of ill-health.