Washington, DC, 1999.
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Health Department, District of Columbia
ADVICE AS TO THE CARE OF PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM
INFLUENZA AND PNEUMONIA
AND AS TO THE PREVENTION OF THESE DISEASES
Influenza may begin as a common cold. Persons showing the least suspicious symptoms of the disease should go to bed at once and send for the doctor. Pending the arrival of the doctor, take a laxative; take also light food, such as eggs, milk, toast and similar things. Have the room well ventilated. Stay in bed at least two or three days after you think you are well. Even if it is found later that you have only a common cold, and not influenza, the rest in bed is the best treatment.
ADVICE TO ATTENDANTS.
Influenza is highly communicable; the germ is contained in the secretions from the mouth and nose. It is spread chiefly by droplets sprayed from the nose and throat in the act of coughing, laughing and sneezing. These droplets are breathed in by a well person who may be near, and in this manner he becomes infected. Persons suffering from, or who are suspected to be suffering from the disease, should, during the act of coughing or sneezing, hold before his face a cloth, or something to prevent these droplets from escaping into the surrounding air. These cloths should be burnt or boiled to kill the germs without delay.
The hands of attendants should be carefully washed with soap and water immediately after attending any one sick and always before eating. Do not use a towel that is used by other persons. Dishes, knives, forks, spoons, etc., used by the patient should be boiled before being used again.
All bed linen, towels, etc. used by the patient should be boiled. Blankets and other bed covering should be exposed out of doors to daylight and sunshine.
SUGGESTIONS FOR PREVENTING INFECTION.
Keep out of places where people congregate. Do not let any one cough, etc. into your face if possible to prevent it. Keep your mouth closed. Be sure to wash your hands immediately after handling any one suffering from the disease. Avoid all exposure or excesses. Avoid fatigue; get sufficient sleep. Eat regularly. Keep in the fresh air as much as possible. Keep away from places where the disease is.
Oct. 1, 1918 50M