The influenza epidemic that swept the world in 1918 killed an estimated 50 million people. More than 4,000 cases and 324 deaths were reported locally.

The flu was first reported here on Sept. 26, 1918, among sailors stationed in Balboa Park, during World War I. By mid-October, the local health board became so alarmed that it closed places of public gathering for weeks.

From the Evening Tribune, Friday, October 11, 1918:

Peak of Influenza Epidemic Said Not Yet Reached

CITY HEALTH BOARD TAKE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST INFLUENZA

Meetings of the health board late yesterday and last night resulted in a decision to forbid all public gatherings as a precautionary measure to prevent possible spread of influenza. Effective at midnight tomorrow night all theatres, churches and schools, both public and private, are to be closed for an indefinite period.


Members of the board of health waited on members of the school board last night and were assured that the schools would not reopen Monday morning. Although Dr. E. P. Chartres-Martin does not regard influenza as a juvenile disease, he advised that the schools be closed, the same as churches.

Theatre managers and ministers have joined in the movement and no violations of the order are expected, as the state health laws give the health officer police powers and he has been assured the co-operation of the local police department should it become necessary.

The order does not affect saloons. It was stated at the health office this morning that men do not congregate in saloons in large numbers and that the purpose of the health board’s order is to discourage or prevent large gatherings, such as was held last night in the interest of the anti-single tax measure.

Discontinue Meetings


Lodge meetings are to be discontinued, and the health authorities suggest that all outside gatherings be encouraged. If the people must congregate, it should be in the open, and not indoors. Dr. Chartres-Martin said.

The order hits the vaudeville houses hardest, as all those engaged for the coming week at both the Savoy and the Hippodrome had to be notified by telephone or telegraph that they could not be used. Scott Palmer, manager of the Savoy, telephoned the news late yesterday to Alexander Pantages at Seattle. The vaudeville magnate graciously acquiesced to the wishes of the health authorities.

The health office has received reports of a number of cases of influenza in San Diego, but of a mild nature.

Urge Use of Solution


A solution of quinine bisulphate has been used in camps and cantonments with beneficial results, and it is therefore urged that all individuals use a solution of this character as a spray for the nose and throat at least twice a day as a preventive measure. This solution will be furnished by the board of health in the city hall free to all. Individuals must bring empty bottles with them to receive the solution. The Red Cross also is about to organize stations where this solution also can be dispensed to the public free. At these headquarters nurses will spray the nose and throat of any individual desiring it.

The public is urged by Health Officer E.P. Chartres-Martin to refrain from indulging in social gatherings of all kinds and to devote as much time as possible to outdoor exercise and recreation. All homes should be kept well ventilated.

Upon request of Surgeon Gen. Blue of the national department of health, the American Red Cross is taking measures in every city in the United States to assist in dealing with influenza. Everything that can be done will be done to prevent a spread of the disease. Nurses will be furnished and emergency hospital supplies provided, where such measures are required by local authorities.

In pursuance with the general plan a chapter committee on influenza for San Diego county has been appointed. It consists of the following members: Chairman, Leroy A. Wright, Dr. E. P. Chartres-Martin, Mrs. C. M. Stimmell, Miss Julia S. Chubbuck, Mrs. Bernard Cahn, Mr. Wood Worcester, Capt. George B. Worthington and C.F. Naylor.