Max’s Reviews > The Great Influenza: The Story of the Deadliest Pandemic in History > Status Update

Chapter 19 begins with the explosion of the influenza in Philadelphia, particularly after its Department of Public Health and Charities, Dr. Wilmer Krusen (who served at the mayor's whim and pleasure) did not deem this strain of influenza contagious or dangerous enough to cancel the city's upcoming Liberty Loans parade. Edwin Vare, mayor, agrees--and the parade goes on as planned. Several hundred thousands attended.