HIS 1150 Assessment 4-1 Our First Pandemic
The Russian Flu, also known as the Asiatic Flu, struck in 1889, bringing unprecedented illness and terror. As a healthy middle-aged woman living in those challenging times, I confronted a new and deadly enemy.
The impact of this flu was unlike anything I had ever witnessed, surpassing even the horrors of war. The enemy was unseen and not fully understood, making it terrifying. I resolved to document this unforgiving killer, knowing my survival was uncertain.
HIS 1150 Assessment 4-1 Our First Pandemic
Many had already perished; as time would reveal, the death toll was estimated to be nearly 1 million people worldwide. This devastating outbreak would go down in history as the first documented case of a global pandemic.
The Russian Flu had initially been referred to as the Asiatic Flu due to its supposed origin, but it quickly acquired the name “Russian Flu” as well, owing to the havoc it wreaked on Russia, my home country. The virus was believed to have originated in Turkestan and made its way to the Russian Empire, spreading rapidly throughout Europe before reaching America.
As I sit here, penning these words, I cannot help but feel a sense of disbelief. I have personally experienced the profound loss caused by this flu. Both my mother and one of my younger brothers succumbed to its relentless grip. It became evident that the flu was lovely to the elderly and children, proving more deadly for these vulnerable populations.
Those already susceptible to illness or weakened by other factors were also at increased risk. In my case, I grappled with a preexisting lung disease that sometimes made breathing difficult. However, I managed to find some solace in specific home remedies that provided slight relief amidst the chaos.
HIS 1150 Assessment 4-1 Our First Pandemic
The symptoms caused by this flu were unlike anything humanity had seen before. Documented reports from those who had suffered revealed various distressing effects, including fever, chills, loss of awareness, deterioration of memory, and loss of taste. The severity and uniqueness of these symptoms were alarming.
The available recourse to alleviate the suffering was limited, with warm wine being recommended as a palliative measure and remedies to soothe the persistent cough. Hospital facilities became overwhelmed, and medical providers were forced to make difficult decisions, often having to turn away patients they believed they could not save.
Each passing day, we witnessed the heartbreaking sight of our dead being carted away, bidding farewell to our loved ones as they were taken away behind the backdrop of morning news events. The realization that a similar outbreak could occur in the future seemed almost unfathomable, but we could only hope that our warning would be heeded.
The worldwide impact of the Russian Flu was devastating. The estimated death toll of nearly 1 million people, accounting for approximately 0.07% of the global population at the time, was genuinely catastrophic.
HIS 1150 Assessment 4-1 Our First Pandemic
However, amidst the tragedy, unexpected developments emerged from this dark historical period. Coinciding with the flu outbreak was a peak in global trade and transportation of goods. This era saw significant advancements in the mastery of work and the movement of goods via rail, rivers, and newly developed roadways.
In the quest to understand the origins of the Russian Flu, scientists endeavored to pinpoint the transmission source. They made a significant breakthrough by identifying connections between the most affected individuals and the transmission locations. It became clear that many cases were concentrated along the routes of modernized transportation for goods.
This marked a pivotal moment in the history of disease transmission, as it was the first time human communication had been scientifically proven. By tracking the flu along trade routes, scientists could observe its spread across communities and countries. In the grand scheme of things, I hoped that our present suffering would Ultimately benefit future generations, enabling them to combat such outbreaks better.
Sadly, the seriousness of the Russian Flu was not initially recognized by all. The Americas, in particular, needed to appreciate the gravity of the situation. Perhaps if their leaders, including the President, had fallen ill, as the czar of Russia, emperor of Germany, and king of Belgium had, they would have been compelled to consider the catastrophic possibilities for their people.
HIS 1150 Assessment 4-1 Our First Pandemic
This devastating pandemic persisted until 1895, leaving lasting scars on our economy and emotional well-being. My country and many others endured profound losses that would resonate for decades.
Some of the things we lost during those dark times could never be recovered. It begs the question: Why haven’t we taken our weaknesses, illnesses, and vulnerabilities more seriously? Should a similar disease afflict us in the future, one that primarily targets the respiratory system and remains unexplained mainly, I fervently hope that our past experiences will be heeded. Decisive actions will be taken to minimize the impact.
Reflecting on the limited preventive measures available during the Russian Flu, it becomes apparent that we needed to be equipped to protect ourselves. We mainly relied on household remedies and had only moderate access to cleaning supplies.
We quickly discovered that the flu spread rapidly among humans through our modern modes of transportation, particularly the railroad system. We bore witness to the dire consequences of this virus, but those overseas could not fully comprehend the imminent danger approaching their shores.
HIS 1150 Assessment 4-1 Our First Pandemic
If the people of America had paid closer attention to the devastation unfolding in my country and many others, they might have been able to mitigate some of the repercussions. The initial and most heavily impacted region in America was the east coast, with port cities bearing the brunt of the outbreak.
Those residing in these regions were indeed among the wealthier individuals of the time, and, understandably, they would be hesitant to disrupt their trade business. However, they had a unique opportunity to slow down the spread of the virus and mitigate its infection rate. If authorities had taken the bold step of halting steamship deliveries and transport, they might have had a better chance of fighting the virus and saving lives.
As history has shown, history will inevitably repeat itself unless we actively work to change its course. Having witnessed firsthand how this illness rapidly spreads through people’s respiratory systems, transmitted through proximity, I implore caution if we face a similar outbreak.
Isolating the virus by halting travel, maintaining distance from one another, and being extraordinarily vigilant around the most vulnerable individuals must be implemented immediately. HIS 1150 Assessment 4-1 Our First Pandemic
One significant mistake made by America during the early stages of the Russian Flu was downplaying the symptoms as a common cold. Despite witnessing the widespread devastation caused by the flu worldwide, they failed to react with the urgency and seriousness that the situation demanded. I fervently pray that such a devastating scenario never befalls us again, but if it does, let the lessons of history serve as a reminder of the importance of swift and decisive action.
