Grip and Pneumonia by G. H. Heald

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 27, 1916

Grip and Pneumonia

By G. H. Heald

G. H. HEALD, M. D.

This winter the case incidence and the mortality from influenza and pneumonia are unusually high, and it behooves every one to avoid exposure if possible. The following rules are to the point:—

Avoid crowds whenever possible, especially stuffy street cars.

Do not remain in the vicinity of one who is coughing, unless it is absolutely necessary to do so.

Dress for the weather. Do not have too much on when indoors, especially in hot, ill-ventilated buildings; and be sure to have on enough when out of doors.

Be especially careful to keep the feet warm and dry.

Remembering that most infections enter the system through the mouth and nose, be careful to maintain a good hygiene of these orifices.

Bad teeth or other faulty dental conditions, chronic catarrhal condition, diseased tonsils, and the like, should have careful attention. It is well to wash the mouth and throat with some mild antiseptic, perhaps dilute peroxide of hydrogen, once or twice a day. If there is a catarrhal discharge, it is well to irrigate the nose by one of the approved methods, using a teaspoonful of baking soda or salt, or a mixture of the two, in a pint of water, and gently drawing the water through the nostrils.

Avoid all dietary indiscretions. Live on a moderate amount of well-selected food. “Keep the head cool, the feet warm, and the bowels open.”

If you find yourself contracting a cold, your best course is to go home and immediately go to bed. A foot bath or other hot treatment is good; but when not taking treatment, stay in bed until the cold is “broken.” You will save time thereby.

If you have a cough, do not expose others. Keep out of public places as much as possible.

Never spit on a sidewalk or crossing or on a floor.