Wilson's Health During the 1918 Flu

By spring 1919, the Spanish flu had infected a third of the world's population. President Wilson fell ill with symptoms typical of the 1918 influenza. Historical records reveal the severity of his condition, which was downplayed publicly. The flu's psychological and physical impacts were significant, with mental disturbances being common. Wilson's stroke in October 1919 is suspected to be linked to his earlier flu infection, affecting his final year in office.

What fraction of the world's population was infected by the Spanish flu by 1919?

• One fourth

• Two thirds

• One half

• One third

How many people were infected by the Spanish flu globally?

• 400 million

• 200 million

• 300 million

• 500 million

What was one of the symptoms President Wilson experienced that was typical of the 1918 influenza?

• Coughing

• High fever

• Sneezing

• Sore throat

Where were the records of Wilson's doctor, Carrie Grayson, found?

• Library of Congress

• Smithsonian Institution

• Wilson Presidential Library

• National Archives

What did Dr. Grayson initially tell the public about President Wilson's health?

• He had pneumonia

• He had a bad cold

• He was perfectly healthy

• He had the flu

What did Wilson not want people to think about him during his illness?

• That he was weak

• That he was quitting

• That he was irresponsible

• That he was indecisive

What was a common complication of the 1918 influenza that affected Wilson?

• Respiratory failure

• Psychological impacts

• Kidney failure

• Liver damage

What was the second most common complication of the 1918 influenza after pneumonia?

• Cardiovascular problems

• Mental disturbances

• Liver issues

• Kidney problems

What major health event did Wilson suffer in October 1919?

• Pneumonia

• Kidney failure

• Stroke

• Heart attack

What was kept a tightly guarded secret about Wilson's final year in office?

• His resignation

• His incapacitation

• His travel plans

• His financial status