Learn More About the 1918 Flu Pandemic


While most of us have heard about the 1918 flu pandemic, sometimes called the Spanish Flu, that caused approximately 40 million deaths worldwide according to the World Health Organization (WHO), we may not know much more about it. Scientists explain this strain of flu was an H1N1 virus with a similar genetic structure of viruses derived from avian origins. Experts also say the methods for preventing the spread of the flu was much the same as preventing COVID-19 from spreading – handwashing, mask wearing, and avoiding close contact with others.

On October 6, 1918, a Greek newspaper published an announcement from the government that read: “The disease germs enter the body through the mouth and generally from the respiratory system. […] The disease spreads by coughs and [is] transmitted by air. Therefore, it is recommended the avoidance of [mental] stress and overwork. […] All schools must be close[d], and meticulous maintenance of cleanliness of lingerie and hands is proposed. In particular, it is highly recommended to avoid close contact with every person who displays flu symptoms.”

Moreover as with today’s pandemic, the virus has its various misconceptions and myths that spread throughout the general public. One such conspiracy theory widely circulated in the US and the United Kingdom was that the pandemic was caused by aspirin, which was produced by the German Bayer Company. Medical professionals believed the story was probably propagated by the fact that the flu emerged right at the end of World War I, which involved the US and England fighting against the Germans.

Another myth written up in a Brazilian paper involved German submarines spreading the virus. A similar story spread to the US’s East Coast where many believed German boats had come ashore and released the infection into the air. Experts say that like today, myths and misinformation spreads when scientists and doctors do not have solutions and people are anxious for answers.

If you are looking for the best senior living Des Moines and the surrounding area has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Jordan Creek. We take the job of protecting the health and safety of those who dwell beneath our roof very seriously including our extensive COVID-19 protocols. Please visit our website to see pictures of our home, read about our amenities, and to inquire about pricing and availability.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek represents the best in assisted living and memory care with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.

Source:medicalnewstoday.com/articles/the-flu-pandemic-of-1918-and-early-conspiracy-theories#Why-did-these-misconceptions-catch-on

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Benefits of Assisted Living

Image
Studies show that for many older adults in need of a little daily assistance, life is easier in assisted living.  The reason so many of them say they prefer assisted living to living on their own, is it actuals helps them to feel more – not less – independent.  In fact, senior living communities such as MorningStar of Littleton are designed to provide seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness, and community.   When you live in your own home, you have the constant worry of upkeep and unexpected repairs, or you may be a person who no longer feels comfortable driving and have given it up altogether.  This makes running errands, grocery shopping and getting to doctors’ appointments difficult. Moving into assisted living means you no longer have to spend time worrying about maintaining a home, and communities such as MorningStar offer scheduled transportation.  Meal prep is another thing that is often difficult for the elderly, and as a result, many older ...
Read more

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Reflections Neighborhood

Image
  Along with the finest assisted living Des Moines –West Des Moines has to offer; MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Reflections Neighborhood has 29 secure suites devoted to caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The Reflections Neighborhood is specifically designed to allow our most tender residents the freedom to explore their surroundings safely and easily. Within the safe haven of our “Neighborhood,” we have created an environment that encourages and supports residents’ independence whenever possible. We accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care. As dementia care specialists, we understand how devastating it is when a loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another memory loss disease, and we want you to know we are here to help. We are honored to offer care and support as we walk alongside the memory-impaired and their families on this u...
Read more

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s Assisted Living Meets All of Your Needs

Image
If you are looking for exceptional assisted living, Des Moines area MorningStar at Jordan Creek may be your answer.   Our community has 56 private assisted living suites , and another 29 secure suites devoted to the care of those with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases.  If you are wondering how costs are determined, we can provide you with a general guideline.  Assisted living offers seniors 62 years and older compassionate assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) in a residential setting and each resident’s care is personalized to address their needs.  Even before you move in, MorningStar’s Wellness Director will sit down with you and your family and do a thorough assessment in order to create an individualized care plan.  Once you have moved in, your trained Care Managers will see to it your needs are met, and as we do routine Care Plan reviews, any changes to your health will be addressed.  You monthly fee is based on ...
Read more