1918 Flu Pandemic Insights

The 1918 flu pandemic, often misnamed the Spanish flu, was a global crisis that killed millions. Originating possibly in the U.S., France, or China, it spread rapidly due to World War I conditions. The virus was deadly, especially to young, healthy individuals, due to a cytokine storm. Lack of vaccines and antibiotics, combined with misinformation, worsened the situation. Cities that implemented strict public health measures fared better. The pandemic ended as herd immunity developed and the virus mutated. Lessons learned include the importance of early intervention and accurate information.

What was one reason the 1918 flu was called the Spanish flu?

• Spain had the highest death toll.

• The Spanish king was immune to the virus.

• Spain was neutral and reported the flu more accurately.

• It originated in Spain.

Which of the following was a contributing factor to the deadliness of the 1918 flu?

• It was spread through contaminated water.

• It only affected the elderly and infants.

• It was resistant to all known antibiotics.

• It caused a cytokine storm in healthy individuals.

Why did the flu spread rapidly among soldiers during World War I?

• They were isolated from civilian populations.

• They had access to advanced medical care.

• They were vaccinated against the wrong strain.

• They were often undernourished and in poor hygiene conditions.

What was a key difference in the response to the flu between Philadelphia and St. Louis?

• St. Louis mandated quarantines quickly, reducing death rates.

• St. Louis held a large public parade during the outbreak.

• Philadelphia had fewer cases due to better public health measures.

• Philadelphia implemented quarantines earlier than St. Louis.

Which city was noted for marking flu-infested homes with quarantine signs?

• Philadelphia

• New York

• Salt Lake City

• San Francisco

What was a common theme among fake remedies during the 1918 flu pandemic?

• They were effective in reducing flu symptoms.

• They were all approved by medical authorities.

• They claimed to cure the flu by boosting the immune system.

• They were based on traditional herbal medicine.

What was the most effective preventive measure against the flu according to studies?

• Using Vicks VapoRub

• Consuming tar honey and snake oil

• Early government intervention and closing public spaces

• Wearing masks only in hospitals

How did the end of World War I affect the flu pandemic?

• It led to a decrease in flu cases due to better medical care.

• It had no impact on the flu's spread.

• It contributed to another wave of the flu as soldiers returned home.

• It resulted in the immediate end of the pandemic.

What eventually weakened the 1918 flu virus?

• The development of a vaccine

• The virus was contained by quarantine measures

• The virus mutated into a less lethal strain

• The virus was eradicated by antibiotics

What role did herd immunity play in ending the 1918 flu pandemic?

• It was achieved through mass vaccination campaigns.

• It had no effect on the pandemic.

• It was a result of improved sanitation practices.

• It helped reduce the virus's stronghold over time.