SPANISH INFLUENZA

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 47, 20 November 1918, Page 4

SPANISH INFLUENZA

METHODS FOtt CONTROL' IN AMERICA. In an effort to prevent an epidemic of Spanish influenza through the United Slat??, Surgeon-General Blue, of Ilia Public Health Service, has provided a list of methods for the control of the disease. From a telegraphic survey made by General Blue it was discovered that the disease had broken out in six United States seaport towns, Fort Morgan, near Mobile, Ala.; Newport News, Philadelphia, New York, Boston, New London, and New Orleans. ■ ■■

Dr. Blue's bulletin of information on the disease issued principally for physicians, contains information as follows: Infections Agent—The bacillus influenza, of Pfeitfer. Sources of Infection.—The secretions from the nose, throat, and respiratory passages of cases or of carriers. Incubation Period.—One to four days; generally two. Jlode of Transmission.—By direct contact or indirect contact through the use of handkerchiefs, common towels, cups, mess gear, or other objects contain mated with fresh secretions. Droplet infection plays an important part. Period of Communicability.—As long as the person 'narbours the causative organism in the respiratory tract. Methods of Control.—The infected individual nnd his environment. Recognition of the Disease—By clinical manifestations ~ nnd bacteriological findings.

Isolation.—Bed isolation of infected ndividunls during the course of the disease. ' Screens between beds are to be recommended. are used vith. only partial success. Quarantine.—None; impracticable. Concurrent Disinfection.-The discharges from the mouth, throat, nose, and other respiratory passages. Terminal Disinfections. — Thorough cleansing, airing, and sunning. The causative organism is short-lived outside the host. General Measures.—-The attendant of the case should wear a gauze mask. During epidemics persons should avoid crowded assemblages, street cars, and the like. Education as regards the danger of. promiscuous coughing and spitting. Patients, becauw of the tendency to the development of broncho-pneumonia, should be treated in a well-ycntilated, warm room.