The Ancient History Of Influenza

In modern times, influenza is an easily treated disease that rarely causes a widespread panic. However, this was not always the reaction to the disease. The history of influenza shows that over the past several millenniums, plagues and epidemics have had dramatic effects on the world’s population. Over the years, the flu has evolved into new varieties and become resistant to modern medicine. Despite being a challenge, influenza has been faced by people and doctors alike throughout history.

Early Appearances And Outbreaks

Though it was not called influenza until much later, the ancients were perhaps the first in history to see the dreaded disease. In 412 B.C., Hippocrates recorded a major epidemic, which is now thought to have been influenza. The term was finally coined in 1357.

The first major epidemic of influenza occurred in 1580. It began in Europe, but soon spread to Asia and Africa. Subsequent outbreaks occurred throughout the 1700s and 1800s. The early history of bird flu can be traced back to 1878, when a disease that became known as the fowl plague caused high deaths among poultry.

The Flu’s Claim To Fame

The most well known history of influenza to Americans occurred throughout 1918 and 1919. It was a mass pandemic that resulted in more than a half million deaths in the United States alone. Throughout the rest of the twentieth century, outbreaks of the flu, as well as bird flu and a similar disease affecting swine plagued the country. The population had no protection against the disease until a vaccine was created in the 1970s.

Modern Marvels And Monstrosities

Currently, influenza is not as much of a problem as avian bird flu is. This variation of the disease is presenting new problems that scientists and doctors have yet to combat. The history of handling influenza will be an asset to the scientists who work to eradicate this latest flu variation.

The Progression Of Disease And The Progress Of Society

Throughout the history of influenza, the disease has progressed and evolved. In many situations, it has managed to outsmart scientists and doctors alike. Just as experts found a solution to one form of influenza, another form came to the forefront.

However, despite the adaptations of the influenza virus, science and society have made progress as well. Today, the disease is not feared nearly as much as it once was, and most people remember the terrible history of influenza while giving thanks for modern medical advancements.