Influenza: The Hundred-Year Hunt to Cure the 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic

by Dr Jeremy Brown

Several hospitals were so overwhelmed with the influx of flu patients that they had to set up triage tents or turn patients away.

Herrick said, let’s try more practical methods that really do work: isolation, for example, and masks to prevent infection, with plenty of fluids to keep the patient hydrated. And rest. Lots and lots of rest. His regimen was squarely in the conservative mainstream. Several weeks of bed rest, partly outdoors, and plenty of fresh air, quiet, and sleep.

if you have a bad case of the flu and need to be seen in the ER, your best bet is to turn up at seven a.m. on Christmas morning. Just don’t tell them I sent you.