Atlanta semi-weekly journal. (Atlanta, Ga.) 1898-1920, 1918-10-11
Precautions AgainSt Influenza.

feCUHCEOHS 1SUtISC IUJIHeU|N'
The municipal authorities of Atlanta are to be
commended for the prompt steps they have taken
towards preventing the spread of Spanish infiu-
enza Under an order issued Monday by the City
Board of Health and subsequently reinforced by
special ordinance from Council, all schools libra
ries, churches, theaters, motion picture shows,
dance halls and other places of public amusement
where people congregate, will be closed until in the
opinion of the Board If Health the necessity for the
precaution has passed.
While the situation in Atlanta is much less
disturbing than in many other cities, these safe
guards have been wisely taken Prudence at this
juncture will keep the contagion within the mar
rowest limits and spare thousands of persons from
its distressing attack. The Atlanta public, self
disciplined it is in concerted action for the COM
mon good needs no further admonition to cooper
ate with the health authorities for the control of
this contagious malady. The Theater Managers
Association showed the cqmmunitys characteristic
spirit when it declared in advance of Councils &C
ton that it would observe unqUestioningly what
ever requirements the Health Board deemed neces-
sary. That will be the general, the unanimous
attitude toward the order; and in cOnsequeao9
the city will pass through its influenza witl-
a minimum of discomfort
1t is exceedingly important however, that indi-
viduals take those simple personal precautions
WHICH are recommended Tor the prevention anu
control of the disease. DR.. J. P. Kennedy, City
Health Officer, seasonably urges the of indi-
vidual drinking cups, the thorough ventilation of
bedrooms day and night, an abundance of fresh
air in all living and working quarters, at least
eight hours Of sleep every night and going to bed
in every case of Spanish influenza of a severe
cold. The National Conference of Army, Navy
and Civilian Doctors has issued concise and help,
full bulletin of advice to what should be done,
first, to keep from catching the influenza and next
to- prevent srious consequences in the event it is
contracted:
Preventives: L, Avoid contact with other
people so far possible. Especially avoid
crowds indoors, in street cars, theaters, mo-
tion picture houses, and other places of public
assemblage. 2, Avoid persons suffering from
colds" sore threats and coughs. 3, Avoid
chilling of the body or living in rooms OF tenn
perature below 65 degrees or above u. a.
Sleep and work in clean, fresh air. 5, Keep
your hands clean and keep them out of your
mouth. D, Avoid expectOrating in public
places and see that others do likewise. T.
Avoid visiting the sick 8, Eat plain nour-
ishing food and avoid alcoholic stmulants
g. Cover your nose with your handkerchief
when you sneeze, your mouth when you
cough Change handkerchiefs frequently
Promptly disinfect soiled handkerchiefs by
boiling washing with soap and water. TO-
Don't worry, keep your feet warm. Wet feet
demand prompt attention. Wet clothes are
dangerous and must be removed soon as
possible.
Treatment: 1, If you get cold go to bed
in wel-ventilated room. Keep 2,
Keep away from other people. Do not kiss
anyone. 3, Use individual basins and knives,
forks, spoons, towels, handkerchefs, soap,
wash plates and cups. 4, Every case of in
fluenza should go bed at once under the
of physician. The patient should stay
in bed at least three days after fever has dis
appeared and until convalescence is well
tablished. 5, The patient must not cough or
sneeZe except when mask or handkerchief is
held before the face 6, He should be in
warm, well-ventiated room. z, There is no
specific for the disease. Symptoms should be
met as they arise. s. The great danger is
from pneumonia Avoid it by staying in bed
while actually i'll and until convalescence is
fully established. 8, The after effects of in
fluenza worse thar the disease Take
care of yourself. 10, Strictly observe the state
and city rule and regulations for the control
of influenza.
In this, in all else that concerns our we'll
being worry is the great weakener and the fear the
great foe calm mind and a cheerful spirit, to-
gether with the precautions suggested are mighty
bulwarks against Spanish influenza.