Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 235, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 7 October 1918 — NOTES ON SPANISH INFLUENZA [ARTICLE]

NOTES ON SPANISH INFLUENZA

Epidemic influenza (Spanish in.fluenza, is an acute infectious disease; has prevailed throughout all ' Surope this year and in many respects is similar to the disease which prevailed in pandemic form in 18891890. In April it appeared on the western front. In May 30 per cent of the population of Spain were attacked, hence it derives its name, Spanish influenza. It has been noted that the spread of the disease follows routes of travel, crowded trains, street cars, etc. The symptoms of the disease, vary in different localities and during different months. The symptoms of the present pandemic have been an acute onset, often very sudden, with bodily weakness and pains in the head, eyee, back and often over the entire body. Vomiting and dizziness are frequent. Chilly sensations are' usual. The temperature from 100 to 104. Pulse low. Appetite gone. Prostration marked. Eye lids are red, and mucuous membrane of nose, throat and bronchi give evidence of inflammation. Bronchitis, pneumonia and middle ear trouble often follow the disease. In Spain diarrhoea was frequent, but at present in the United States constipation appears with many cases. All evidence points to direct contact being the means of spread, and from the local symptoms it is assumed that the nose and throat have been the points of inoculation. Coughing and sneezing, except behind a handkerchief, is as great a sanitary offense as promiscuous spitting, and should be equally

condemned. On account of many of our physicians being called to army service the public should carefully read these symptoms and help us prevent this disease in every way possible. If satisfied you are taking the disease call or consult your physician early that he may better cope with the conditions. Isolate the cases as quickly as possible and help us rid the country of Epidemic influenza. When *t is possible call your physician during the day, as night calls will be more expensive and the doctors are working day and night now and must have some rest at night to give you good service. _ . F. H. HEMPHILL, County Health Commissioner.