Flu Epidemic

A flu epidemic is very serious. It can result in severe illness and death. Flu becomes an epidemic when large amounts of people are affected by the virus. The flu epidemic of 1918 is the worst documented case in the United States with 40 million people dying from 1918 to 1919 from the flu. That means 1/5 of the world population died from the flu. Most of the people who died ranged in age from 20 to 40 years. This was very strange as flu epidemics generally kill small children, the elderly, and those with health problems. It is reported that ½ of the United States Soldiers who died in the war in Europe died from the flu rather than anything war related.

While the United States was hit the hardest by the flu epidemic of 1918, other parts of the world suffered as well. Travelers from the United States carried the virus to other locations. Those who traveled to the United States took it back home with them. The flu epidemic swept through North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Brazil.

In early 1919 individuals



were forced to wear face masks to reduce the risk of catching the flu. Funeral services for those who succumbed to it had to be completed in 15 minutes to keep people from gathering in one place to spread the virus. Stores would not allow sick individuals in the door. Railroads began making passengers carry certificates from their doctor that they were in good health before they could purchase a train ticket. There were fines and jail terms for those who violated any of the flue ordinance regulations.

The world has never suffered another flu epidemic like the one from 1918 to 1919. We know more about viruses and how to prevent the spreading of them now than we did back then. Simply washing your hands several times a day can greatly reduce your chances of catching the flu. The flu shot is also available to help protect against it. Children and the elderly should get a flu shot each year. Those individuals who work with the public should get one as well, especially those who work in the medical profession.


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