INFECTION AND DISEASE IN A GROUP OF SOUTH INDIAN FAMILIES.

Abstract

The general illness experience of a group of South Indian families living in three semiurban areas of Vellore has been observed during a still continuing study, using morbidity information obtained from house visiting approximately twice each week. Records of the illnesses in over 100 families have been obtained for a period of almost 2 years, starting in September 1965. Rapid analysis of illness records was possible using punched cards and electrical data processing equipment. A general incidence of 10.9 illnesses per person-year was observed, with the largest number evident in preschool children, especially those under two years of age. Respiratory illness was the illness most frequently experienced by all age groups, with especially high incidence in children. Diarrheal illness was most frequent in children from 6 months to 2 years of age with the highest incidence in the children aged 6 to 12 months. A seasonal pattern of respiratory, diarrheal and skin disease was observed. Mortality rates were similar to those recorded for the Madras state in 1955, with an observed infant mortality of 136 per 1,000 live births.