Best Means of
Preventing Its Spread. . . Symptoms. . . Now 117 Cases in the County
I will thank you for space to warn the people of the
influenza or “grippe” in Robeson couty and especially in Lumberton and vicinity,
and to emphasize the best means of preventing its spread. There are now in and
around Lumberton 90 cases, 6 cases at Maxton, 3 at McDonalds, 2 at Fairmont, 9
at Red Springs, 4 at Pembroke, 3 at St. Pauls; and none at Rowland, Parkton and
Lumber Bridge.
The disease is caused by the bacillus influenza. In 1889 and
1890 it spread to the fur quarters of the globe, and judging from the number of
deaths this was the most extensive and serious epidemic that hs occurred in
modern times. No one is immune, but males and robust individuals seem more
susceptible, perhaps on account of greater exposure.
The disease is usually ushered in with a feeling of malaise,
chilly sensations, marked pain in the eyes, and aching in the back and muscles
of the limbs. There may be a violent headache, severe cough and a distinct
chill with a temperature which rises rapidly, going as high as 105 with
shortness of breath and great prostration. In uncomplicated cases the symptoms subside
in a few days and the patient slowly recovers. The usual complications are
pneumonia and bronchitis, and rarely nephritis, pleurisy, and severe diarrhea
with hemorrhage from the bowels.
Influenza is transmitted directly from one person to
another. The bacillus does not multiply outside the body but is found in the
secretions of the nose, throat and respiratory tract. Therefore, avoid
theatres, mass meetings and closed places where there is a crowd, or close
contact with an individual who has catarrhal symptoms. The danger from the
common cup, the roller towel, kissing, handkerchiefs, soda-water glasses,
spoons, etc., should be emphasized as the control of this disease rests largely
with the public.
As a prophylactic measure I would suggest a spray of a
strong solution of common table salt, gargle the throat every four hours, also
inhale up the nose and keep your feet dry. Parents should keep their children
at home and stay there themselves unless absolutely necessary to go out. If you
do get sick, go to bed and call your physician and go by his directions. Have
plenty of fresh air in your room. Do not take patent medicine of any kind. Do
not take headache tablets that contain acetanlid, which is a powerful heart
depressant. There is no disease that weakens you so quickly as true influenza
and if you take acetanlid or patent medicine that contains it, you will further
weaken an already weak heart.
I am doing all I can to prevent its spread and want the
co-operation of every citizen. When in doubt about any matter, phone No. 8 and
assistance will be given you if it is possible to do so.
--W.A. McPhaul, County
Health Officer
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