Oddly, this particular strain proved particularly dangerous for people aged 20-40, whereas flu viruses typically kill mostly the very young and elderly. Two years' worth of sickness decreased the average American lifespan by 10 years overall.

Many cities and entire countries placed full restrictions on all public gatherings and travel, in an attempt to halt the spread of the epidemic. Theaters, churches and other public places were closed for over a year, and many funerals were limited to only 15 minutes. In fact, so many people had the virus that, in some locations, everyday life effectively stopped.