Module 5

Throughout history we have had more than one flu pandemic. Two notable flu pandemics are ones taking place in 1968, and one in 1918. Influenza viruses are constantly changing making it hard to predict what strain is coming next. In the 1918 virus (h1N1) it came about with genes of avian origin. One-third of the world’s population became infected with this virus. The number of deaths was estimated to be at least 50 million worldwide with about 675,000 occurring in the United States. Although the origin of this virus is not confirmed, it is said to have spread to the U.S. by the military. In the 1968 pandemic the strain (H3N2 virus) came from two genes in the Influenza A. It was first noted in the United States in September 1968. The estimated number of deaths was 1 million worldwide and about 100,000 in the United States. Most deaths were in people 65 years and older. The flu can be deadly to people who are older or people have health issues. COVID-19 also has this affect. 
During these pandemics we advanced medically, developing cures and vaccines to help prevent this from happening again. Medical professionals are now able to predict flu season and strains of the virus it will bring about. Therefor, they make enough vaccines to help. Like today, cities around the world closed schools and put social distancing rules in place to prevent the spread of the disease. This took place for three years. I am praying ours ends much sooner.