Influenza Epidemic Decreases In General, but Increases in Army, and Is So Bad in Rutherfordton That it Closes all Public Places, Jan. 28, 1920

From the Hickory Daily Record, Jan. 28, 1920

Influenza Epidemic On Decrease. . . News Received in Washington Indicates Disease Is Not Making Progress Among Civilians. . . Increase in Army. . . Rutherfordton Takes Action

By the Associated Press

Washington, Jan. 28—Thee has been practically no change in the influenza situation over the United States during the last 24 hours. A slow decrease in the number of new cases was shown today in reports to the public health service.

New Cases in Army

An increase in the number of cases of influenza among the American troops in the army at home and abroad was shown today.

For the weeks ending January 2 and 9 respectively 24 and 41 cases were reported. The only disease death reported, however, was one due to tuberculosis.

The report showed the death rate among troops in Germany continued high. For the week ending January 16 it was 36.74 per thousand, which was slightly higher than for the previous week.

During the week ending January 16 there were reported 63 cases of influenza and 33 cases of pneumonia, and 12 deaths.

All Places Closed

Rutherfordton, N.C.—According to a ruling of the city council, all public gatherings have been prohibited and churches and schools are closed to prevent the spread of influenza.

The regular term of superior court has been postponed until March.